At Caldecote Primary School, we want our children to become curious, knowledgeable and thoughtful historians. Through the study of people, events and civilisations from the local area, Britain and around the world, pupils develop a rich understanding of how the past has shaped the world we live in today. 

Our curriculum is designed to help children build a secure understanding of chronology, make connections between different periods of history and develop the skills to think and work like historians. Pupils learn to ask questions, analyse evidence, explore different interpretations and communicate their ideas confidently. 

A Journey Through Time

History begins in the Early Years, where children explore changes within their own lives, families and communities. As they move through the school, pupils study a wide range of topics including castles and monarchs, the Great Fire of London, Ancient Egypt, the Romans, Ancient Greece, World War Two, the Industrial Revolution, the Maya civilisation and the Shang Dynasty. They also learn about the rich history of Cambridge and Caldecote.

Learning Through Enquiry

At Caldecote, history is taught through enquiry questions that encourage children to think deeply about the past. Each topic begins with a big question, helping pupils investigate, discuss and evaluate evidence before reaching informed conclusions. This approach develops curiosity, critical thinking and a genuine love of learning. 

Developing the Whole Child

Our history curriculum supports our wider aim of developing:

• Successful Learners who can recall knowledge, analyse evidence and communicate their understanding effectively.
• Confident Individuals who are curious, resilient and willing to challenge their own thinking.
• Responsible Citizens who understand how societies have changed over time and appreciate different cultures, perspectives and experiences.
• Effective Contributors who can discuss, debate and justify their ideas using evidence. 

Bringing History to Life

We enrich our history curriculum through educational visits, local history walks, museum experiences, artefact workshops, guest speakers and living history events. These first-hand experiences help children deepen their understanding of the past and make meaningful connections with their learning. 

Preparing Historians for the Future

By the time pupils leave Caldecote Primary School, they have developed a secure knowledge of important events, people and civilisations, alongside the ability to think critically, ask thoughtful questions and understand how the past continues to influence the present.