How are things different in the past from today? How are they the same?

How did people live in the past?

Who were the key men and women that helped shape society as we know it today?

These are some of the questions that our children focus on in history at Solent Infant School.

When our children’s journey at Solent Infant School comes to an end they will know about:


• changes within living memory, usually involving a change in national life.

• events beyond living memory that are significant, for example the first aeroplane flight.

• the lives of significant individuals in the past, for example Queen Victoria, Florence Nightingale and Mary Seacole.

• significant historical events, people and places in their own locality, for example, Charles Dickens and Portsmouth.

Our aim for all Solent pupils is to be able to know and understand about the past, put events into time order: chronological sequence, look at primary and secondary sources, ask questions and think critically.

The Reception Classes learn about history through their own personal experiences, role play, discussions and stories.

Key Stage 1 history is taught through historical enquiry. Year 1 and 2 have three main historical lines of enquiry each academic year, taught by key questions and high-quality resources. History is taught every term. Cross curricular links are made whenever possible for example history through writing as part of the Year 1, ‘A Toys’ Story’ learning theme.

Visits are incorporated into the curriculum, where possible, to offer an interactive experience for the children to learn and enjoy history. For example, Year 2 visit the Weald and Down Living Museum during their Habitat Havens learning theme.