History
At Westacre we aim to inspire our pupils' curiosity to know more about the past. We equip pupils to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence and develop perspective and judgement. Through a well-rounded curriculum pupils develop an understanding of the complexity of people’s lives, the diversity of societies as well as their own identity and challenges of their time
Enrichment in History
History is brought to life at Westacre using a variety of immersive and well planned activities.
In year 5, students have become archaeologists and "dug up" artefacts to start topics, and will have visits from key figures from the Viking period and local history to bring their topics to life.
In year 6, students examine how a diverse range of civilisations survived, and indeed thrived, across time- from Neanderthals to Ancient Egyptians, Shang Dynasty of Ancient China to nomadic tribes which should excite and engage our students to imagine life in different times.
In year 7, treasure hunts and the placing of key events and resources are used to engage the children with their Conflict topic. A visit to the Commandery in Worcester recently highlighted the importance of our local city in the Civil War.
Year 7 trip to The Commandery, Worcester
Year 7 had an amazing day at The Commandery. We all took part in "Ready for Battle", learning about the preparations for war - how to dress the part and drill practice. We also learnt about the history of the building as a hospital during the war, and how surgery would have taken place. With a geography focus, we walked up to Fort Royal Hill to see where the battle was organised and considered why it was a station. Then we toured the building to learn about key individuals, such as Prince Rupert and Lord Hamilton.
History Man visit
Year 5 were thrilled to have their Anglo Saxon topic brought to life by the History Man in January. They tried on different Anglo Saxon clothing, studied weapons and a variety of artefacts.
Year 6 Greek Day
Year 6 immersed themselves in Ancient Greece for their topic launch, where they were invited to dress up, taste foods similar to those eaten, look at the origins of the Olympics and study the Greek alphabet. They could then make comparisons between then and now, and look for similarities and differences.
Year 5 Trip to the Black Country Living Museum
As part of our learning about how innovation in transport transformed local trade, Year 5 went to the Black Country Living Museum to learn more about the canal system. They were also able to experience what school would have been like in the Victorian period and were able to see different buildings through the ages.
History and remembrance
For Remembrance Day this year, we all came together as a school community to take part in our own Remembrance Service. We reflected on who the armed forces community were and how they work hard to keep us safe. We then looked at different ways to remember the sacrifices that people have made for us to keep us safe today before holding a two-minute silence.
Please see the document below for more information about our curriculum intent for History:
Please see the document below for more information about how we support the needs of all learners in History:
Please see the document below for more information about the 'subject traits' we have planned in History that we aim for all our children to leave Westacre being able to do: