Why We Study History
At Enfield Academy of New Waltham, we believe history should inspire curiosity and help children understand both their place in the world and how the past has shaped the present.
Our history curriculum provides pupils with memorable learning experiences that develop a secure understanding of Britain’s past and the wider world. Over time, children build a coherent chronological narrative, exploring significant events, people and civilisations that have influenced society.
Through the study of history, pupils develop the ability to think critically, ask meaningful questions and evaluate evidence. They learn that history is not fixed, but is interpreted through different perspectives, helping them to form balanced and informed judgements.
Children gain an understanding of key historical concepts such as change and continuity, cause and consequence, and similarity and difference. They begin to recognise how societies have evolved, how people’s lives were shaped by their time, and how the past continues to impact the present.
Our curriculum celebrates diversity and ensures that pupils study a wide range of cultures and perspectives. Through this, children deepen their understanding of identity, community and modern Britain.
We aim to foster a love of history, developing curious learners who are eager to explore the past and understand its relevance to their future.
How We Teach History
At Enfield Academy, history is taught through a carefully sequenced, knowledge-rich curriculum that enables pupils to build secure understanding over time.
Children are taught through a combination of clear knowledge delivery and enquiry-based learning. Lessons are structured around key questions which encourage pupils to think deeply, analyse evidence and develop their own ideas.
The curriculum is organised chronologically to help pupils develop a strong sense of time, with opportunities to revisit and build upon prior learning. Key concepts such as empire, migration, and settlement are repeatedly explored across different periods, allowing pupils to deepen their understanding.
Teaching focuses on both substantive knowledge (key events, people and facts) and disciplinary knowledge (how historians think and work). Pupils regularly engage with a range of historical sources, including artefacts, images and written accounts, learning to question their reliability and consider different interpretations.
High-quality teaching includes:
- Explicit teaching of key knowledge and vocabulary
- Opportunities for discussion, debate and reasoning
- Use of questioning to develop critical thinking
- Structured support that gradually builds independence
Assessment is ongoing and used to inform teaching. Retrieval practice, questioning and low-stakes quizzes support pupils in remembering and applying their knowledge over time.
We ensure that history is accessible to all pupils through carefully adapted teaching. Scaffolding, visual support and vocabulary development allow every child to succeed whilst accessing the same ambitious curriculum.
Learning is enriched through:
- Educational visits and visitors
- Thematic days and experiences
- Links with other subjects, such as English, geography and art
These experiences help to bring history to life and deepen pupils’ understanding.
What Is Special About History in Our School
History at Enfield Academy is special because it combines strong knowledge with curiosity, enquiry and a deep understanding of the world.
A key strength of our curriculum is its focus on both knowing and thinking. Pupils do not simply learn facts; they learn how to question, interpret and analyse the past like historians. This enables them to develop sophisticated thinking skills and meaningful understanding.
Our curriculum is carefully designed to ensure knowledge is revisited and retained over time. This allows pupils to make connections between different periods and develop a secure, coherent understanding of history rather than isolated pieces of information.
We place a strong emphasis on diversity and representation, ensuring that pupils encounter a wide range of people, cultures and perspectives. This helps children to understand modern Britain and see themselves within historical narratives.
Vocabulary development is a key feature across the school. Children are encouraged to use accurate historical language when speaking and writing, supporting their ability to communicate ideas clearly and confidently.
We aim to make history engaging and memorable for all pupils. Through enrichment opportunities, interactive learning and a strong focus on discussion and debate, children develop a genuine interest in the past.
Ultimately, our history curriculum ensures that pupils leave Enfield Academy with:
- A secure understanding of key historical knowledge and concepts
- The ability to think critically and question the past
- An appreciation of how history shapes the present
- A curiosity and enthusiasm for learning about the world