Victorian to Now

The disciplinary knowledge, including the major ideas that shape the way a period of time is understood, is evidenced below. Our learning has included a key focus on the similarities and differences between two (or more) periods of time. This element of learning has encouraged pupils to identify how Britain and its settlers, landmarks and happenings have changed, and pupils have provided supporting details and shared clear opinions expressed as a conclusion. 

Homes of Queens and Subjects - Nursery

In developing understanding of important events that have occurred prior to their lifetime, and exploring familiar situations in the past, Nursery pupils have been introduced to the 1800s - looking at paintings of Queen Victoria and her coronation, contrasting with King Charles. This led to the exploration of photographs of Victorian homes, comparing the architecture, heating sources and other objects to modern-day homes. 

Victorian Way of Life - Year 1

Year 1 have developed their historical chronology discussing similarities and differences between the Victorian way of life and our lives today. Using historical enquiry, pupils explored primary sources (photographs) linking the concept of the past to personal objects and experiences (toys, clothing worn, girls and boys educated separately)  and compared these aspects to the modern day.  This progressed to asking questions, using their close observation skills, and finding answers through paired research. Historical terms and events have been secured with the guidance of a knowledge.  To connect with the past and experience life as a Victorian, Y2 engaged in a Victorians Day.

Time Flowing Through the River Thames - Year 4

With immersion into the topic of trade across the River Thames, Year 4 pupils have explored historical concepts, delving into the key changes over a long period of time (from the 1300’s to the present day). They have explored texts and diary entries analysing the connections and contrasts between aspects.  This exploration, has allowed pupils to make informed responses on why the Thames froze over and how London Bridge has changed from the Roman era to the present day. 

8,000 Years of Chislehurst Caves - Year 6

In conjunction with Year 6’s in-depth study of World War II, and analysis pertaining to the similarities and differences to World War I and present day wars, pupils journeyed through 8,000 years of history visiting Chislehurst Caves. They visited with the purpose of exploring the varied history of this site, in particular, stepping into the war time tunnels learning how the shelters within the caves protected thousands during the Bliz. This sheltering  was then used as a gateway to learning about the ‘unsheltered’ people persecuted for being Jewish - the holocaust genocide.