At John Betts, we use bespoke assessment shields to help our children learn History in a clear and purposeful way. The shields outline the key disciplinary knowledge needed to think and work like a historian. Children understand which skills are required for History and identify which disciplinary knowledge they will be using to answer the learning question in each lesson. They also use the shields to revisit and reflect on their learning, helping them to remember and connect their understanding over time. These discussions often lead to meaningful conversations about how historians use these skills in real-world professions.

Children at our school learn History in a structured and meaningful way. Learning is carefully planned so that children do not simply recall facts for one lesson, but develop a deeper understanding of the past and how it has shaped the world we live in today. Disciplinary knowledge is central to our History curriculum, supporting children to ask questions, use evidence, understand chronology and make sense of change, cause and consequence.

Our History learning is organised to ensure that every child experiences the full breadth of the subject. This approach helps them build confidence, curiosity and a strong sense of historical understanding, while developing the skills needed for future learning and an appreciation of the past.