The secondary curriculum review
The aim of developing successful learners who are literate, communicate well in a range of ways, have enquiring minds, and learn independently and collaboratively is at the heart of the history programme of study. These essential learning skills are developed through the key processes of historical enquiry, using evidence and communicating about the past.
As they develop their understanding of the nature of historical study, pupils ask and answer important questions, evaluate evidence, identify and analyse different interpretations of the past, and learn to substantiate any arguments and judgements they make.
Studying history gives pupils the opportunity to engage with a range of complex issues and provides a rich and varied context through which they develop many of the skills essential to becoming successful learners. They learn about many ideas and events that have shaped our world. Pupils find out about the history of Britain, Europe and the world. They develop a chronological overview that enables them to make connections within and across different periods and societies, investigate Britain's relationships with the wider world, and relate past events to the present day and to their own lives.
The curriculum aims to develop confident learners who have a sense of self-worth, make informed choices, become increasingly independent and are open to the excitement and inspiration offered by human achievements. These qualities are central to the teaching of history.
History stimulates an interest in the past. It fires pupils' curiosity and imagination, moving and inspiring them with the dilemmas, choices and beliefs of people in the past. It helps them develop their own identity through an understanding of history at personal, local, national and international levels.
The history programme of study provides opportunities for pupils to express their ideas about historical questions and issues related to local, national and global contexts as well as an environment for pupils to explore their own values and beliefs. By analysing and evaluating how and why the past has been interpreted and represented in different ways, pupils learn to respond with confidence, developing coherent and substantiated arguments. Group discussion and the increasing use of a range of different media for presenting their work allow pupils to develop confidence when performing and to appreciate the value of working with others.
The study of history prepares pupils for their lives as active and responsible citizens. It prepares pupils for the future, equipping them with knowledge and skills that are valued in adult life, enhancing employability and developing their ability to take part in a democratic society. It encourages understanding of the historic origins of our ethnic and cultural diversity, and helps pupils become individuals who are able to question what they are told on the basis of evidence.
History gives pupils opportunities to investigate questions relating to the changing nature of political power, the changes and continuities in the lives of people in the past, people's diverse ideas, beliefs and attitudes in past societies and the changing nature of conflict and its lasting impact. Through looking at these questions, pupils develop a better understanding of some of the key issues concerning the world today, which helps them appreciate the importance of making a positive contribution to the communities in which they live.
