Through history, pupils learn not only about the past, but about people, identity and the shared responsibility we have in shaping the future. 

At Aston Rowant School our history curriculum plays a vital role in developing pupils’ cultural capital. Through carefully chosen content and enquiry‑based learning, pupils are supported to understand whose stories are told, whose voices have sometimes been overlooked, and why the past matters today. 

History helps children place themselves within a wider narrative and understand how past societies, choices and events shape modern Britain and the world we live in now. 

Whose Stories Are Told – and Why 

Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to ensure pupils encounter a broad and representative range of historical experiences. 

Across EYFS, KS1 and KS2, pupils learn about: 

• Significant individuals and events 
• Ordinary people and daily life in the past 
• Different social groups, roles and perspectives 
• Local, national and global histories 

Pupils are encouraged to ask critical questions, such as: 

• Who is telling this story? 
• Whose voices are missing? 
• Why has this event or person been remembered? 

This ensures pupils understand that history is not just one story, but many - shaped by evidence, interpretation and perspective. 

Understanding Diversity Across Time 

History teaching helps pupils recognise that diversity is not new, and that societies in the past were shaped by different cultures, beliefs, roles and experiences. 

Through their studies, pupils explore: 

• Children’s lives across different periods 
• Changing roles of men and women 
• Beliefs, traditions and ways of life in ancient and more recent societies 
• How communities responded to challenge, conflict and change 

By learning about diversity across time, pupils develop empathy, curiosity and respect for others, strengthening their understanding of difference in the modern world. 

Connecting the Past to Modern Britain 

A key aim of our history curriculum is to help pupils understand how the past influences the present. 

Pupils learn about: 

• How laws, rights and responsibilities have developed 
• How conflict and cooperation have shaped society 
• How migration, trade and exploration have influenced Britain 
• How historical events still affect communities today 

These links help pupils make sense of modern Britain’s values, systems and identities. 

Promoting Critical Thinking and Perspective 

Through historical enquiry, pupils learn that: 

• Historical accounts can differ 
• Evidence must be questioned 
• Context matters when understanding past actions 

Pupils are encouraged to discuss moral and ethical questions, such as: 

• Fairness and justice 
• Responsibility and choice 
• Power and leadership 
• Courage and resilience 

These discussions support pupils’ personal development, helping them express informed opinions with respect and sensitivity. 

Building Cultural Capital for All Pupils 

We recognise that not all pupils will encounter historical knowledge beyond school. Our history curriculum ensures that every child gains: 

• Exposure to a wide range of historical periods and societies 
• Understanding of national heritage and global history 
• The knowledge and language needed to engage with the wider world 

This helps pupils feel confident, informed and prepared for future learning. 

Impact on Pupils 

As a result of our approach to history and cultural capital, pupils: 

• Speak confidently about diverse historical societies 
• Show curiosity and respect for people with different experiences 
• Understand that history shapes identity and society 
• Make thoughtful links between past and present 
• Are well prepared to engage with life in modern Britain