Our History curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity and fascination about the past, both within Britain and across the wider world, while developing a secure chronological understanding and an enquiring, analytical mindset. By teaching chronology in a structured and meaningful way, we help children build a strong sense of identity and cultural awareness grounded in their historical heritage. This supports them in valuing their own culture as well as the diverse cultures that shape modern, multicultural Britain.
We aim to develop children who think critically, ask insightful questions, and work as young historians—evaluating evidence, forming interpretations, and recognising the complexity of people’s lives and significant events. Our curriculum enables pupils to investigate and interpret the past, understand historical timelines and change over time, and communicate their understanding with accuracy and confidence. Local history is woven throughout our programme so that children develop an appreciation of the people, places, and events that influence our community, our nation, and the wider world.
Each year group studies three History themes annually, carefully sequenced to revisit and build knowledge and skills progressively throughout their time at Godfrey Ermen. Following a consistent model, pupils explore a Local History study, then British History, and finally a World History theme—moving from the immediate and familiar to broader global contexts.
Our curriculum is underpinned by four key concepts: Chronology, Interpretation, Historical Concepts, and Historical Enquiry, with historical communication and a strong understanding of locality threaded throughout. Together, these elements ensure our pupils develop a deep, coherent, and connected understanding of the past.