History
History is a valued subject at St Nicholas Primary School. Learning about the past helps children to celebrate achievements, understand mistakes, and explore the relationship between then and now.
Our history curriculum challenges pupils to use the core elements of historical enquiry, enabling them to gain perspective, ask questions and develop a secure understanding of the past.
Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
In EYFS, children begin to develop an understanding of the past through:
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learning key historical vocabulary
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talking about events within their own lives
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recognising that the past can be different from today
Children also begin to look beyond living memory by learning about significant individuals, such as Florence Nightingale, helping them appreciate how people from the past have influenced the world we live in today.
Key Stage 1
In Key Stage 1, children study people and events from within and beyond living memory.
Year 1
Children explore toys from the past, helping them understand:
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continuity and change
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similarity and difference
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how children’s lives and play have changed over time
They also study a significant local individual, learning about Amy Johnson and her achievements as a pioneering female pilot.
Year 2
Children complete a depth study of The Great Fire of London, developing a deeper understanding of cause, consequence and historical significance.
They also learn about Neil Armstrong and the 1969 moon landing, broadening their knowledge of globally significant individuals.
Key Stage 2
British History
In Key Stage 2, children develop a secure chronological understanding of British history.
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Year 3: The Stone Age to the Iron Age, including the significance of Stonehenge and changes in settlements
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Year 4: Roman invasion and settlement of Britain, using written sources and exploring Roman legacy
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Year 5: Anglo-Saxon settlement, investigating invasion, migration and influence
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Year 6: The Vikings, including the raid on Lindisfarne and resistance led by Alfred the Great
Children explore continuity and change, cause and consequence, and historical interpretation using a range of sources.
World History & Post-1066 Studies
Children also study wider world history and post-1066 Britain.
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Year 3: World War Two, focusing on the Battle of Britain and a local study of Hull
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Year 4: Ancient Greece and its lasting influence on culture and democracy
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Year 5: The Maya civilisation, comparing it with Anglo-Saxon Britain
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Year 6: Early civilisations with a focus on Ancient Egypt, exploring how societies flourished in challenging environments
How Can I Support My Child with History?
Get involved at school
History days are memorable experiences. Parents and grandparents are always welcome to share knowledge or experiences of the past.
Visit historic places
Museums, historic houses and local landmarks help bring history to life. Many museums are free and ideal for family visits.
Watch and read together
Age-appropriate TV programmes and books help reinforce learning. Historical fiction is especially memorable for children.
Recommended reading
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The Roman Mysteries – Caroline Lawrence
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Goodnight Mister Tom – Michelle Magorian
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Stig of the Dump – Clive King
Embrace the fun facts!
Children love the more gruesome side of history — Roman toilets, naked Greek athletes, or Egyptian mummification are guaranteed conversation starters!
Useful Websites
BBC Bitesize – History
Videos, games and information covering a wide range of historical periods.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize
Teaching History with 100 Objects
Creative ideas for using artefacts to explore history.
3D History
Printable activities and creative projects for children to complete at home. https://www.3dhistory.co.uk/
Horrible Histories
A fun and engaging way to learn history through humour and memorable facts.
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