"The more you know about the past, the better prepared you are for the future."

Theodore Roosevelt

History Curriculum at ARTS Education

Our full History Curriculum Overview can be downloaded HERE

Brief History curriculum overview

The History curriculum at Key Stage 3 and 4 is designed to give students a strong understanding of the past and how it shapes the world they live in today. Through the study of British, European and world history, students will develop curiosity about the past, learn to ask thoughtful questions, and build the skills needed to investigate, analyse and communicate their ideas effectively.

At Key Stage 3, students explore a wide range of historical periods and themes. They study British history from the Norman Conquest through to the 20th century, alongside global topics such as the Islamic Golden Age, the transatlantic slave trade, and the impact of empire. This gives them a broad foundation of knowledge and an understanding of key historical concepts such as cause and consequence, continuity and change, and significance.

At Key Stage 4, students follow the GCSE History course, which allows them to study certain topics in greater depth. They will learn how to evaluate historical sources, interpret different viewpoints, and construct well-supported arguments. This helps them to develop not only subject knowledge but also critical thinking and communication skills that are valuable across all areas of study and beyond school.

The History curriculum aims to ensure that all students:

• develop a secure chronological understanding of British, European and world history

• investigate and evaluate the causes and consequences of key events and developments

• understand the significance of different periods, individuals and ideas in shaping the modern world

• become confident in using historical sources and evidence to build interpretations and arguments

• communicate their understanding clearly, whether through extended writing, debate or presentation

• appreciate the diversity of human experiences across time and place, fostering empathy and perspective

At Keystage 3