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At Vinehall we believe that History is an essential component of the curriculum. It is, in the words of the historian David Thomson, ‘the best liberal education a student can have in the modern world.’ Through the teaching of history we aim to provide children with the opportunity to explore and investigate, to analyse and judge, to make informed criticism and praise and to gain an understanding of human activity in the past and its relevance to the present. Varied teaching methods, outings and the use of an extensive range of teaching resources, including a modern library and impressive ICT facilities, all help to foster an enjoyment and enthusiasm for the subject.
The department sets high standards and enjoys an excellent academic record at both Common Entrance and Scholarship. We are also proud of the success achieved in the national Townsend Warner History Competition. A string of successful results over the years has helped to establish us as one of the leading departments in the country at a primary level.
As a department we feel that the children leave us well equipped with the knowledge and skills that will help them move on to their senior school with a great deal of confidence. In addition, we would also like to think that their time at Vinehall will help to instil an interest in the subject that goes way beyond the classroom and into adulthood.
Curriculum
History is taught as a single subject throughout the main school. We observe the majority of the National Curriculum requirements and each year group receives two hours of formal teaching a week with additional prep for those children in Year 5 and above. There are no sets but there is streaming of children, according to academic ability, from Year 6 onwards.
The curriculum notes show the main topics studied in each year group. All year groups are taken on trips throughout the year but you may find the suggestions for family visits, listed at the end of each section, a useful way of improving your child’s general knowledge and interest, particularly over the holiday period.
Trips, Visits & Talks
The department arranges several exciting trips during the year as well as visiting speakers. In addition, members of the History club visit various places of historical importance on most weekends in the term.
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