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Our Vision for History at St Thomas

At St Thomas, we believe History helps children understand the world they live in and how it has been shaped by the past. Our curriculum encourages children to be curious, ask questions and think like historians. We want pupils to develop a rich understanding of local, British and world history, helping them to make sense of the present and prepare for the future.

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​Our Aim

At St Thomas, we believe History helps children develop curiosity, critical thinking and a sense of identity.

Through History, children explore significant people, events and civilisations, learning how the past has influenced the world around them.

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How History is Taught

History is taught across all year groups and builds over time so children develop their knowledge and skills as they move through school. Our curriculum is supported by the Cornerstones Curriculum and helps children develop a chronological understanding of the past. [stthomas.org.uk], [stthomas.org.uk]

Children experience a range of activities, including:

• Historical enquiries and investigations

• Using artefacts and primary sources

• Exploring significant people and events

• Developing chronology and historical understanding

• Comparing different interpretations of the past

Across school:

EYFS: Exploring the past through stories, family experiences and the world around them.

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KS1: Learning about significant people, events and changes within living memory.

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KS2: Developing a deeper understanding of British and world history through enquiry, research and historical investigation.

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Inclusive for All

We believe every child can succeed in History.

• Learning is adapted so all children can access the curriculum.

• Children are supported to develop historical knowledge and enquiry skills.

• High expectations are maintained for all learners.

Celebrating History

We enjoy sharing children's historical learning across the school through:

• Classroom and corridor displays

• Topic projects and investigations

• Educational visits and enrichment activities

• Cross-curricular learning opportunities

Children are encouraged to ask questions, investigate evidence and develop their own understanding of the past.

By the time children leave St Thomas, they:

• Understand key periods and events in history

• Can place events on a timeline

• Use evidence to answer historical questions

• Understand how the past has shaped the present

• Show curiosity and enthusiasm for learning about history

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Get Involved​

We encourage families to support History at home by discussing online safety and exploring educational technology together.

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