History
History at Mablethorpe Primary Academy
At Mablethorpe Primary Academy, we believe that history helps children understand the world around them and their place within it. Through studying the achievements, experiences and lives of people from the past, pupils develop a sense of curiosity, an understanding of chronology and an appreciation of how the past has shaped the present.
Our history curriculum encourages pupils to think like historians. Children learn to ask questions, analyse evidence, consider different interpretations and draw conclusions from a range of historical sources. Through rich discussions, enquiry-based learning and memorable experiences, pupils develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to communicate their understanding of the past.
We want all pupils to leave MPA with a secure understanding of Britain's history and its place in the wider world, whilst developing respect for different cultures, perspectives and experiences throughout time.
Our Curriculum Drivers
Aspiration
Pupils learn about significant individuals and civilisations whose achievements have shaped the world. Through studying their successes, challenges and innovations, children are encouraged to develop ambition and aspire to achieve their own goals.
Community
Children explore the history of Mablethorpe, local area of Lincolnshire and Britain, helping them to understand their heritage and place within their community, country and the wider world.
Experiences
Educational visits, visitors, artefacts, workshops and immersive learning opportunities bring history to life and help children make meaningful connections with the past. Please see our Learning Beyond the Classroom for further details.
Communication
Pupils develop their historical vocabulary and learn to discuss, debate and justify their ideas using evidence. They are encouraged to communicate their understanding confidently through speaking, writing and presentation.
Belonging
By studying diverse societies, cultures and individuals throughout history, pupils develop an appreciation of different experiences and gain a deeper understanding of identity, diversity and belonging.
What Makes a Historian at MPA?
Our historians:
- Ask thoughtful questions about the past.
- Use evidence to support their ideas.
- Understand chronology and historical periods.
- Recognise that there can be different interpretations of events.
- Make comparisons between different societies and time periods.
- Communicate their understanding clearly using historical vocabulary.
- Reflect on how the past influences the present.
Learning Through Enquiry
Our history curriculum is built around enquiry questions that encourage pupils to investigate and think critically.
Examples include:
- How do we know about the past?
- What was life like for children in Ancient Maya society?
- Why did the Vikings travel so far from home?
- How has Mablethorpe changed over time?
- What can historical sources tell us about people's lives?
Through these enquiries, children learn not only historical knowledge but also how historians reach conclusions about the past.
Learning in Action
History at MPA is brought to life through:
- Educational visits
- Historical workshops
- Artefact investigations
- Drama and role play
- Historical debates
- Source analysis
- Local history studies
- Cross-curricular projects
These experiences help pupils build lasting memories whilst deepening their historical understanding.
Historical Vocabulary
Pupils are explicitly taught and revisit important historical vocabulary throughout their time at school including Tier 2 and Tier 3 vocabulary. Please see the vocabulary progression map for further details.
Progression in History
Our curriculum is carefully sequenced so that pupils build their knowledge and disciplinary understanding over time.
Children progressively develop their ability to:
- Use chronology accurately.
- Analyse and evaluate historical sources.
- Recognise historical significance.
- Understand cause and consequence.
- Compare different societies and periods.
- Interpret evidence and reach reasoned conclusions.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
History helps our pupils become curious, reflective and informed citizens. By understanding the experiences of people from different times, places and cultures, children develop empathy, critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the world they live in.
Through our history curriculum, we aim to inspire pupils to learn from the past, engage with the present and contribute positively to the future.
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Subject Intent Statements:
History
At Mablethorpe Primary Academy, history inspires pupils to become curious, reflective and knowledgeable individuals who understand how the past has shaped our lives today and how we can make the world a better place for the future. We recognise that some pupils have limited experiences beyond their immediate community, so our curriculum is designed to broaden horizons, develop cultural capital and raise aspirations through the study of diverse people, periods and civilisations.
Rooted in our school values, history encourages pupils to ask questions, think critically and consider different perspectives. Through carefully sequenced learning, pupils develop secure substantive knowledge alongside the disciplinary skills of historians, including analysing evidence, identifying change and continuity, and understanding cause and consequence.
We aim for all pupils, regardless of their starting points, to leave primary school with a strong chronological understanding of the past, an appreciation of diversity, and the confidence to make meaningful connections between historical events and the modern world. Through our history curriculum, pupils develop the knowledge and skills needed to become informed, responsible citizens.
History for our children
I am learning about the past to make a better future.
Pupil Voice
Hampton Court Pupil experience
Olivia 'There were some beautiful Gardens at Hampton Court, I was amazed'.
Robert 'The kitchens were colossal so I knew that Henry VIII was rich'.
Jayden ' I felt like a King'
Lilly - 'I felt so special walking in the footsteps of previous Kings'.
Helpful History Links for parents and pupils
Quizzes and games - English Heritage.