Welcome to the HISTORY Department

what is history?

History is the study of the past, focusing on how people, societies, and events have shaped the world we live in today. It helps us understand change over time and how the actions and decisions of the past influence the present and future. At Admiral Lord Nelson School (ALNS), we see history as essential for understanding the world, fostering critical thinking, and empowering students to make a difference. History is not just about understanding the past—it is about equipping students for the future.

What is the purpose of learning History at ALNS?

Our history curriculum is designed to help students:

  • Develop a deep understanding of the past and its influence on the present.
  • Think critically and evaluate evidence to form their own judgements.
  • Gain insights into diverse cultures, societies, and beliefs.
  • Recognize their own potential to shape the world positively.
  • By learning history, students not only acquire knowledge but also build key skills like analysis, interpretation, and communication, which are vital for their academic success and personal growth.
How do we teach History at ALNS?

At Admiral Lord Nelson School, we teach history by taking students on a journey through key time periods, from Medieval times to the Modern era, so they can understand how the past shapes the world we live in today. Our lessons focus on big themes like Power, Beliefs, Ordinary Lives, Empire, and Conflict, with questions that encourage curiosity and deeper thinking. We make sure students learn about diverse cultures and perspectives, helping them see history from different viewpoints. Along the way, they develop important skills like analysing evidence, forming arguments, and writing clearly. Through engaging activities and regular assessments, we ensure students build and keep their knowledge. Our curriculum also connects history to modern values and issues, helping students understand why it matters and how it can empower them to think critically and independently.

Intent

Our vision is for all students to be able to change the world for the better. To achieve this, we aim to:

  • Provide a broad understanding of history from the Medieval period to the Modern era.
  • Empower students with essential knowledge and skills to understand their world.
  • Encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and the ability to interpret historical evidence and perspectives.

Implementation

Our curriculum includes:

  • A focus on key historical themes like Power, Beliefs, Ordinary Lives, Empire, and Conflict.
  • Chronological teaching to help students build a ‘big picture’ of the past.
  • Use of diverse histories and turning points that explain the modern world.
  • Regular assessments and retrieval practices to deepen understanding and measure progress.
  • Literacy development through critical reading and sophisticated writing.
  • Links to British values and themes relevant to students' lives

Impact

We measure the success of our curriculum by:

  • Students’ ability to think critically and articulate their understanding of the past.
  • Their confidence in making connections between historical events and contemporary issues.
  • High levels of engagement and curiosity in the subject.
  • Good academic outcomes, reflected in GCSE performance and beyond.

 
 
 
 


 

 
 


 
 
 
 


 
 
 


 
 
 
 

  • Develop a deep understanding of historical events, concepts, and skills.
  • Learn to analyse, select, and apply historical knowledge to explore key questions and solve problems.
  • Think critically about the past, make connections, and draw thoughtful conclusions.
  • Interpret and communicate historical information effectively, using a range of formats suited to different contexts.

At ALNS, we expect students to:

  • Engage actively with their learning, asking questions and seeking answers.
  • Develop their ability to think critically and write effectively.
  • Show respect for different perspectives and cultures.
  • Build resilience in mastering challenging historical concepts and skills.

The History Department at ALNS is committed to:

  • Delivering a high-quality curriculum that empowers every student.
  • Supporting all learners, including those with additional needs, to achieve their potential.
  • Creating an inclusive environment where diverse histories are taught and celebrated.
  • Encouraging a lifelong love of learning and curiosity about the past.
5 Year Overview

Year 7 Curriculum Plan:

Medieval and Early Modern Beginnings.
What is History? Learn the key skills and methods historians use to study the past.
The Norman Conquest: Discover how William the Conqueror took control of England in 1066.
Controlling England: Understand how William used castles, laws, and force to secure his power.
Medieval Monarchs: Explore the lives and reigns of England's early kings and queens.
Medieval Life: Find out what life was like for ordinary people during the Middle Ages.
The Tudors: Learn about one of the most famous royal dynasties in British history.                              

Year 8 Curriculum Plan:

Power, Industry, and Empire.
The Transatlantic Slave Trade: Examine the brutal history of slavery and its global impact.
The British Empire: Explore how Britain built and ruled its empire across the world.
The Industrial Revolution: Discover how rapid technological changes transformed society.
Whitechapel Murders: Investigate crime, poverty, and policing in Victorian London.
World War One: Learn about the causes, events, and impact of the war to end all wars.                                       

Year 9 Curriculum Plan:

Conflict, Economy, and Civil Rights.
World War Two: Understand the causes, key events, and consequences of the Second World War.
Black and British: Explore the often-overlooked contributions of Black Britons to the nation's history.
1920s USA: Discover the Roaring Twenties, including jazz, prosperity, and prohibition.
1930s USA – The Great Depression: Learn about the economic crisis that shaped modern America.
Post-War USA: Explore the dramatic changes in the U.S. economy after World War Two, including the rise of consumerism and suburban living.
The Civil Rights Movement: Study the fight for racial equality and justice in the 1950s and 60s.    

At KS4, students study four fascinating topics from the Eduqas GCSE History course, offering a broad insight into key periods of history:

Development of the USA, 1929–2000: Explore major events in modern American history, including the Great Depression, the Civil Rights Movement, the Cold War, and the rise of the USA as a global superpower.
Changes in Health and Medicine in Britain, c.500–present day: Trace the evolution of medicine and healthcare from medieval times to the modern era, including breakthroughs like the discovery of antibiotics, the establishment of the NHS, and advancements in public health.
Elizabethan England, c.1558–1603: Delve into the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, examining her leadership, life for the rich and poor, and the challenges Elizabeth faced, such as the Spanish Armada and religious tensions.
Germany in Transition, 1918–1939: Investigate the turbulent period in German history, from the aftermath of World War I to the rise of the Nazi regime, including Hitler’s consolidation of power and life in Nazi Germany.