History

History at Eden Park
At Eden Park, History is an exciting adventure! We provide children with memorable opportunities to explore and deepen their understanding of the past through our rich and engaging History Curriculum.

As a coastal town, our unique location inspires us to focus on themes of explorers, conflicts, and how Brixham has influenced local, national, and international history. Using themes such as ‘Explorers and Pioneers’, ‘Ancient Civilizations’, and ‘Conflict and Resolution’, our curriculum builds on prior knowledge and encourages children to think critically about the world around them.

We make deliberate curriculum choices to include hands-on learning through historical enquiries, fieldwork, and trips. By exploring the archaeological and historic treasures in our area, children gain a deeper connection to history. Alongside historical knowledge, we focus on developing the skills of a historian, using our Historical Voices. These voices are key concepts based on the National Curriculum aims, ensuring that children build their skills year by year and make meaningful connections between past and present.

By the time children complete their historical journey at Eden Park Primary and Nursery School, they will have a solid understanding of how historical events have shaped society and how those events connect to the world today.

History in Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
Our historical journey begins in Early Years through the ‘Understanding the World’ area of learning. Children explore key events in the calendar and begin understanding their own history through topics like ‘All About Me’. In our Frogs Nursery, children learn about their immediate family history, and in Reception, they discover the history of their home, Brixham. Trips to local places like the museum and studying historical pictures allow children to build the foundation of historical knowledge they will build on in later years.

Key Stage One (Years 1 and 2)
In Year 1, children develop their understanding of chronology and events beyond living memory. They explore local history through topics like ‘Castles’, learning how conflicts led to the construction of defensive structures. They also study ‘The Gunpowder Plot’, understanding the significance of Bonfire Night.

In Year 2, children learn about significant individuals in history through ‘Pioneers and Explorers’, such as Sir Francis Drake, Amelia Earhart, and Neil Armstrong. The importance of reflection and remembrance is introduced through the study of Remembrance Day, building on their understanding of conflict.

Key Stage Two (Years 3 to 6)
In Lower Key Stage 2 (Years 3 and 4), children study history chronologically, starting with the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age. They then move on to Ancient Egypt, the Roman invasion of Britain, and the conflicts between the Vikings and Anglo-Saxons.

In Upper Key Stage 2 (Years 5 and 6), children compare ancient civilizations, including the Ancient Greeks and Ancient Maya, while continuing their exploration of significant individuals. They revisit Sir Francis Drake and learn about pioneers like Sir Ernest Shackleton, Emmeline Pankhurst, and Charles Darwin. Their historical journey concludes with an in-depth study of World War II, exploring its causes, consequences, and the local impact on Brixham.

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