Children begin their understanding of History and have opportunities to develop their knowledge and understanding of the world.  This allows children to begin to explore the past and present events relevant to their own lives and those of their families.  They think and talk about how they have grown and changed and begin to recognise the differences between past and present. They will begin to tell stories about the past and begin to use time-related vocabulary.

Throughout Key Stage 2 the girls study people, significant events and developments from the recent and more distant past in the locality, in Britain and in other parts of the world. They learn about change and continuity and begin to see History from a variety of perspectives; political, economic and social. The girls also begin to learn that the past can be represented and interpreted in different ways.

Our KS3 History curriculum offers a dynamic, forward-thinking journey through British and global history, designed to inspire curious young minds. From the Norman Conquest and Elizabethan England to the pivotal moments of WWI and the fight for Women’s Suffrage, pupils explore key events that have shaped today’s Britain. Complementing this, we delve into global perspectives with studies of the Aztecs, the Transatlantic Slave Trade, and the British Empire, including an in-depth case study on the ‘Jewel in the Crown’, India.  

The KS4 History curriculum offers an exciting, rigorous exploration of the 20th Century, from the aftermath of WWI and the turbulent interwar years which saw the rise of totalitarian regimes, to the Cold War and superpower dynamics until 1990. Pupils engage deeply with complex historical events, developing strong source analysis and evaluation skills. We aim to empower pupils to question and interpret information confidently, equipping them to navigate today’s world of misinformation and disinformation with clarity and insight, and to become thoughtful, informed citizens. 

At KS5, students embark on a rich exploration of modern history, tracing the making of 20th-century Britain alongside a compelling depth study of the USA: students investigate everything from the flappers, prohibition and gangsterism of the Roaring Twenties to the transformative Civil Rights Movement. Additionally, we explore the Witch Craze that swept Britain, Europe and America during the 16th and 17th Centuries, including the infamous Salem Witch Trials. Through critical analysis and thoughtful discussion, students develop deep, empathetic understanding, equipping them to engage confidently with contemporary issues and appreciate the lasting relevance of history. 

We are fortunate to be living in a city with so many places of historical interest: Hampton Court Palace, Hatfield House and Leeds Castle are all within easy reach of London, whilst the British Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum and Tower of London are just a tube ride away. All museums have educational resources suitable for all, from the very youngest to the most mature of history buffs.

In addition to the visit to the Battlefields of the Western Front there are a number of History visits throughout the girls’ school life, from the Florence Nightingale Museum in Year 2 to Hampton Court in Year 5. There are also “Victorian” days for Year 6.

A Level students attend academic conferences on aspects of their studies, delivered by university historians who are leaders in their field of study. Students also visit the National Archives in Kew to use primary sources in their A Level Historical Enquiry work.