West Hill Park School

West Hill Park embraces History not only as a valued subject in the curriculum, but also as core to the ethos of the school, culminating in a post-Common Entrance tour of the First World War battlefields on the Somme.

In the curriculum we aim to teach English and British History in a largely chronological style from Year 3 to Year 8. In the foundation years the subject is taught in a more topic based style following QCA guidelines. At this stage other civilizations are also studied, such as Ancient Greece and Egypt.

Year 5 study Medieval England, from the Norman Conquest to the Wars of the Roses. They undertake specific studies into Hastings, Castles, the medieval church, Thomas Becket and Henry II. This period is supported by a wealth of interactive and audiovisual teaching aids.

Year 6 study the Tudors, from the Battle of Bosworth to the reign of Elizabeth I. This involves an in-depth study on Henry VIII and the reigns of his children. Other topics, such as the Reformation and Tudor life are looked at to help set the scene.

All classes from Year 5 to Year 8 are taught three lessons per week, with a short prep. We endeavour to take all year groups on trips including visits to Hastings, Chichester Cathedral for a Medieval study, Weald and Downland Museum for a Tudor activity day, The National Army museum (Chelsea), the National Gallery and Portrait Gallery and HMS Victory.

Although history skills are an important element to the courses, it is also important to make the subject as enjoyable and practical as possible. This we achieve through display work, role-play, and the handling of artefacts.