History

Why do we teach History?

At RJS, we believe that the subject of history is not just about dates and events; it is an opportunity for children to be learning about people of significance: to feel inspired by these individuals and to form their own judgements about the world they live in. Through our history curriculum, we aim to ignite curiosity about the past by encouraging children to ask questions and seek answers about how life has changed. By exploring various time periods and cultures, our students learn to make connections between past events and events of today and understand that history is not a singular story but a collection of diverse voices and experiences.

We strive for a History curriculum which provides our students with the tools to explore the past. History is filled with fascinating stories, and by uncovering these narratives, our children develop a deeper connection about the triumphs and struggles of those who came before us which helps our students recognise their place in the world. They begin to see how their own lives are linked to our ancestors, encouraging empathy and understanding for different perspectives.

At RJS, we emphasise that history is not just something that happened long ago; it is alive in our actions today. Our students are encouraged to reflect on how they, too, are part of a living history. Through Wow days, studying artefacts, local fieldwork, school trips and discussions about current events, we help them see that their choices and actions can shape the future, just as those of the past have shaped our present.

What do we teach in History?

We follow the Primary National Curriculum for History of England

GLA History and Geography overview 2024/25

GLA History and Geography overview 2025/26

Gallery

Victorian Day Y4

What are the assessment end points in History?

History End Points

How could you support your child at home?

Share your family history

Make history relatable by sharing your own family history with your child. Share fun memories of the people and places in your childhood and encourage your child to talk about their favourite memories as well. Share photographs with them from the past and talk about the difference between then and now.

Books and Television

Use books or TV programmes as a conversation starter about the past. Read about people and events that have made a difference in the world. Try visiting your local library to discover a wider range of books.

Commemorate important historical events

Make your child aware of historical events such as Remembrance Day. Discuss why they are important and think of ways that you can commemorate them together. Watch the news together and explain why this is happening and why.

Visit local history

Cheltenham has a wealth of historical places to visit: Pitville Pump Room, the Wilson Art Gallery and Museum, Holst Birthplace,

Websites. A bit further afield in Gloucestershire, you can visit Berkeley Castle, Gloucester Cathedral, Sudeley Castle, Tewkesbury Abbey and Dean Heritage Centre in the Forest of Dean.

Books

Other suggested books can be found here

Rowanfield Junior School

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