History

At RPPS, we believe that History should be an immersive and engaging experience where students actively explore, investigate, and question the world around them. Our aim is to inspire a deep understanding and appreciation of the past, helping students to recognise its profound impact on both the present and future. Through the study of history, we encourage students to become inquisitive and compassionate individuals, with a strong awareness of the diversity of human experiences and the connections between past and present events. By fostering an appreciation for different cultures, societies, and historical contexts, we empower our students to engage thoughtfully and meaningfully with the world. 

Using Key Stage History to underpin our curriculum, we offer a structured yet dynamic approach that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives needed to explore the complexities of history. We aim to show that history is not merely about memorising dates and events, but about understanding the intricate relationships between people, places, and ideas across time. 

At RPPS, history is taught through an enquiry-based approach that prioritises questioning and critical thinking. This is closely tied to essential historical skills such as Chronology, Communication, Enquiry, and Interpretation, as well as broader historical concepts like cause and consequence, continuity and change, and significance. We place great value on History and the wider Humanities as the foundation for children’s understanding of the world around them, offering rich learning opportunities and meaningful cross-curricular links. These links ignite curiosity and foster a lifelong engagement with the subject. 

Our curriculum is designed to help students connect with the people and events that have shaped the past, developing an understanding of both historical developments and their relevance today. Pupils are encouraged to engage with various historical tools and resources, including primary and secondary sources, timelines, artefacts, and historical narratives. These resources enable students to investigate diverse historical periods, from ancient civilisations to more modern world events. We empower them to make informed interpretations and engage with historical debates critically. This equips them with the confidence, empathy, and analytical skills needed to understand and contribute to the world around them. 

At RPPS, we are committed to enhancing our students’ historical learning through a variety of extracurricular activities and immersive experiences. One of the highlights of our History curriculum is the range of exciting field trips that bring the past to life. In Year One, students visit the British Museum to explore the wonders of Ancient Egypt, while Year Two students travel to Verulamium to learn about the Romans and their impact on Britain. By Year Four, a trip to Hampton Court Palace transports students to the world of the Tudors, and in Year Five, a visit to the RAF Museum deepens their understanding of World War II. Additionally, we enrich our curriculum with in-house activities, such as our Victorian School Day, where students experienced life in the 19th century through interactive reenactments and activities. 

Beyond these educational trips, we offer a unique opportunity for students to further engage with history through our History Mystery Club. The club encourages students to explore historical themes beyond the classroom, with a focus on local history. Last year, club members took part in field trips that uncovered the rich history of Hammersmith, Fulham, and Chiswick, fostering a stronger connection to their community’s past. During these trips, they delved into the stories behind the blue plaques located on Upper Mall, Hammersmith Terrace, and Brook Green, learning about notable historical figures from the area. In the summer term, students compiled their findings into the History Mystery Magazine, showcasing their research and photos. This project not only highlights their discoveries from the year but also nurtures their passion for history by providing a platform to share their work with the school community. 

Technology also plays a crucial role in enhancing our History curriculum, enriching the learning experience and developing essential skills. We use iPads and digital tools for researching historical topics, creating presentations, and producing digital books, pamphlets, and posters. These technologies enable students to access a wealth of information, develop their research skills, and present their findings in engaging formats. Digital learning platforms and apps allow students to interact with historical data, explore virtual museums, and create multimedia projects. This integration of technology supports traditional historical learning while preparing students to thrive in a technology-driven world. 

Through these enriching opportunities, we aim to nurture a deep and lasting interest in history, helping students develop both a nuanced understanding of the past and the skills to critically engage with it. 

History at RPPS is deeply interdisciplinary, offering rich and meaningful opportunities to connect with other subjects. We build strong links with areas such as English, Art, Music, and Geography, allowing students to apply historical concepts in diverse learning contexts. For example, in our Music curriculum, students explore and compose songs inspired by World War I, integrating historical events with creative expression. While studying World War II, students examined King George’s announcement of war in 1939 in English and, in Computing, they developed websites about the era. These activities helped them deepen their understanding of the historical context and apply their research skills through technology. These cross-curricular connections help students view history as part of a broader understanding of the world and its cultures, making their learning more comprehensive and relevant. 

Our approach to teaching history at RPPS is clear and impactful. Our curriculum is designed to be engaging, interdisciplinary, and enriching, ensuring students develop a deep and meaningful understanding of the past. Through immersive learning experiences, enquiry-based approaches, and cross-curricular connections, we inspire curiosity and critical thinking. By fostering a passion for history, we equip students with the skills to understand and contribute thoughtfully to the world around them and define and shape their future.