Humanities - History and Geography

Our humanities curriculum is designed to inspire in children a curiosity about the world around them and equip them with the knowledge and skills to think critically and develop perspective. Lessons help pupils gain understanding about processes and events that have shaped both their local and global environments. Our 3is of intent, implementation and impact support a clear sequential building of knowledge and vocabulary. Children also experience the integrated nature of learning through explicit cross curricular links to other subjects.

With the kind support of the PTA, all SASM children have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of trips and experiences. These visits are embedded into the schemes of work, supporting retention of knowledge and vocabulary. Recent trips include Gunnersbury Park Museum (Yr6 - Victorian Childhood), Hampton Court Palace (Yr4 - Tudors & local knowledge), Butser Ancient Farm (Year 3 - Stone Age) , Kew Gardens (Year 3 - Rainforests) and School on the River (Yr5 - Fieldwork & local knlowledge). These activities reflect our aim to teach humanities with a hands on approach using creative learning opportunities, primary sources and artefacts. Highlights of the year include theme days where children and teachers alike come to school dressed in costumes and enjoy a full day of exciting and creative activities relating to their topic. These might include arts and crafts (e.g Roman mosaics - Year 4), cooking (South American fiesta cocktails - Year 3), drama or listening to visiting speakers and theatre groups (Greek workshops - Year 5).

Year groups alternate between discrete geography and history topics each half term, studying a broad range of geographical and historical processes and events. These range from the Ancient Islamic Civilizations to the Victorians and from rainforests to mountains. Cultural capital through local visits, enables our learners to see how they too are part of our curriculum’s narrative - whether it be through testing the water quality of our local river, the Thames or visiting our Tudor local landmark at Hampton Court Palace.

In humanities teaching, we encourage pupils to develop curious minds, asking thoughtful and inquisitive questions. We place a strong emphasis on developing lines of historical enquiry and geographical skills such as mapping and fieldwork.

Please take a look at some of the outstanding work that has been produced across the school and photographs from our visits.