History
Intent
At Little Waltham C.E.V.A. Primary School, our history curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity, deepen understanding and develop pupils’ awareness of how the past has shaped the society we live in today. Through enquiry-led teaching, we help pupils to explore key events, individuals and civilisations that have influenced Britain and the wider world. Our vision, “Aspiring to inspire others towards excellence,” and our Christian values of compassion, courage, forgiveness and perseverance, are at the heart of our history curriculum. We aim for pupils to understand that history is not simply a record of what has been, but a narrative that can help us to make moral, informed choices for the future.
Our history curriculum has a strong moral purpose. Each unit begins with a Bible verse that invites reflection on a moral theme such as justice, fairness, responsibility or resilience. Through the study of significant individuals and historical events, pupils are encouraged to question actions, consider consequences and reflect on how moral choices have shaped communities across time. They learn that people’s experiences and values influence their decisions, and they begin to consider how compassion and courage can bring about positive change.
At Little Waltham, we believe that every child has the potential to succeed. Our history curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, designed to ensure that all pupils—regardless of background or starting point—are able to access and engage with their learning experiences. Lessons are structured around overarching questions that promote curiosity and independence, while historical skills and knowledge are revisited and deepened across the key stages. Carefully planned progression allows pupils to build a coherent understanding of chronology, develop the ability to analyse evidence and form reasoned judgements.
History at Little Waltham also plays an important role in building character. Pupils are encouraged to think critically, debate ideas, and consider multiple perspectives. They engage with history through drama, discussion and enquiry, developing confidence to express their opinions and the resilience to challenge injustice. We celebrate local history—such as Chelmsford’s industrial heritage and the work of Marconi—to help pupils connect their learning to the community around them and to develop a sense of belonging. Through understanding the struggles and achievements of those who came before them, pupils learn that perseverance and courage are essential qualities in shaping a better future.
Our history curriculum also prepares pupils for the future. By analysing evidence, recognising bias and forming balanced conclusions, pupils develop the transferable skills they need to succeed beyond school. They learn to communicate their ideas clearly, collaborate with others and respect differing viewpoints. Through learning about the diversity of societies, pupils develop empathy, tolerance and a strong sense of moral responsibility. History helps pupils to see their place in the world as informed, reflective and compassionate citizens who are ready to make a difference.
Implementation
History is taught through a carefully structured and progressive curriculum that ensures pupils gain both substantive knowledge and disciplinary skills. Each unit begins with an overarching question that provides a clear purpose for learning and a focus for enquiry. Lessons are designed around smaller, investigative questions that allow pupils to build understanding step by step and revisit concepts over time. The inclusion of a Bible verse at the start of each unit supports spiritual reflection and provides moral and ethical context, allowing pupils to explore how values have shaped human behaviour throughout history.
Teaching at Little Waltham is enquiry-based and promotes curiosity, investigation and reflection. Pupils are given opportunities to examine a wide range of historical sources including artefacts, images, diaries, letters and maps, developing their ability to interpret and evaluate evidence. Subject-specific vocabulary is explicitly taught and modelled so that pupils can express their ideas with confidence and precision. History lessons also make meaningful links to other curriculum areas such as English, geography and art, helping pupils to apply their knowledge in context and deepen understanding through reading, writing and creative expression.
Enrichment plays a vital role in the implementation of our history curriculum. Visits and immersive experiences are planned to bring learning to life and to strengthen pupils’ understanding of key historical concepts. These include trips to Colchester Castle to explore Roman Britain, Layer Marney Tower to investigate the Great Fire of London, The Tower of London to learn about the Tudors, and the Duxford Imperial War Museum to explore World War II. Local history is explored through studies of Chelmsford’s development and its connection to Marconi’s pioneering work. These experiences build cultural capital, promote curiosity and help pupils to understand that history is all around them.
Assessment is woven through the curriculum and used to inform teaching. Pupils reflect on their learning at the end of each unit by returning to the overarching question, discussing what they have discovered and how their thinking has developed. Teachers assess pupils’ understanding of both factual knowledge and historical skills against clear expectations for working towards, expected and greater depth. This reflective approach, aligned with the school’s marking and feedback policy, ensures that pupils are active participants in their learning and understand their next steps.
Impact
By the time pupils leave Little Waltham, they have developed a secure chronological understanding of British and world history and can confidently discuss how different periods link and influence one another. They are able to use historical vocabulary accurately and effectively, interpret sources with increasing sophistication and communicate their understanding through extended discussion and writing. Pupils learn to think critically about evidence, appreciate differing viewpoints and form balanced conclusions based on reasoning rather than opinion.
The study of history also nurtures empathy, respect and a strong moral compass. Pupils understand how human choices—both good and bad—have shaped societies, and they reflect on what it means to act with compassion, courage and integrity. They are confident to debate key issues and demonstrate an awareness of fairness and equality in their own lives. Through learning about courageous individuals, reformers and changemakers, pupils recognise their own potential to make a positive difference in the world.
Ultimately, the impact of history at Little Waltham is seen in pupils who are thoughtful, reflective and aspirational learners. They leave our school not only with a broad and deep understanding of the past, but also with the curiosity, character and moral awareness needed to shape their future.