Purpose of Study 

A high-quality history education will help pupils gain a coherent knowledge and understanding of Britain’s past and that of the wider world. It should inspire pupils’ curiosity to know more about the past. Teaching should equip pupils to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence, sift arguments, and develop perspective and judgement. History helps pupils to understand the complexity of people’s lives, the process of change, the diversity of societies and relationships between different groups, as well as their own identity and the challenges of their time. 

Who is the Cowley historian?  

The Cowley historian is a child who shows curiosity about the world of the past and how it influences them today. They are able to talk confidently about their History topics and in written form. They are able to form a coherent, chronological narrative, from the earliest times to the present day and discuss how Britain has influenced and been influenced by the wider world. They understand historical concepts such as change, cause and consequence, similarity, difference and significance. Children understand the methods of historical enquiry, including how to use evidence to build conclusions and framing historically valid questions.  

Cowley History rationale  

• At Cowley, we teach history through purposeful enquiry exploring sources such as pictures, stories, writing and artefacts. Children will be able to examine their own personal history, develop their sense of chronology and generate arguments. 

• We enable children to know about significant events in British history and to appreciate how things have changed over time. They will understand how Britain is part of a wider European culture and to study some aspects of European history. 

• We recap previous learning to ensure long-life learning occurs, allowing children to consolidate skills that progress across the school curriculum. Challenge is provided for all and additional support where necessary. 

• Wherever possible, links are made between subjects within over-arching themes to motivate and contextualise learning. Throughout the History curriculum, learners are encouraged to use and apply skills from Literacy.