History

Subject Intent

Why study history at DCS?

We study history to understand the past, but also to try and explain the present.

History at DCS helps pupils understand how significant events in the past have shaped the city, country and world that we live in. History lessons inspire pupils so that they are curious about the past and want to learn more.  They equip pupils with the skills to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence, sift arguments, and develop perspective and judgement. History allows them to explore challenging concepts with sensitivity, integrity, compassion and humility.  

Studying History at DCS ensures students understand that not everyone’s history is the same and that significant events affect people in different ways.  History promotes understanding between different cultures and national traditions which is important for students to successfully contribute to the modern diverse city we live in.  Students will learn about the diversity of societies and the changing relationships between different groups, as well as their own identity and the challenges of their time.  

Our curriculum is sequenced chronologically, following National Curriculum guidelines to help students understand the key themes of change, continuity, cause and consequence.  This allows students to connect ideas and concepts such as democracy and equality from different time periods and see how they inter-relate.

History at DCS provides students with:

• Interesting and challenging lessons that inspire students to enjoy history and understand its relevance and importance today.
• A supportive and inclusive learning environment that ensures all experience success.
• Knowledge of significant events in British, local and world history.
• The language to be able to present opinions and arguments that are well written, clearly expressed, organised and supported by evidence.
• Opportunities to apply the school’s FAITH values  of Fellowship, Aspiration, Integrity, Tenacity and Humility to a range of contexts and consider the social, moral and cultural dimensions of the past.
• The skills to question sources, interpretations and narratives of the past and apply this to the information-rich world they live in.  
• A greater understanding of how national and global events have affected the lives of the people in Derby and Derbyshire and why our local setting is important.
• Opportunities to apply their historical knowledge to different time periods and prepare them for further study.
• Enrichment opportunities through a range of educational visits and external speakers that will broaden their horizons and bring to life the history studied in the classroom.
• The aspiration to further develop their knowledge and understanding and follow clear pathways to GCSE, A level and beyond.

History Curriculum Plans