History and Geography
The intent of the History curriculum at Tenterden Junior School is to equip our pupils with a deep understanding of the past, in line with the national curriculum, and to instil in them a curiosity and passion for history that extends beyond the classroom through topics such as: Anglo-Saxons, Ancient Egyptians and World War II. We aim to create a curriculum that allows children to be independent and inquisitive.
Our implementation of the History curriculum is centred on the principle that learning should be interactive, engaging, and accessible for all our pupils. We use a range of teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of our pupils, including enquiry-based learning, visits to museums and historical sites, the use of ICT, and opportunities for discussion and debate. Our curriculum is organised with a chronological understanding and reflects a wide range of perspectives and events that promote a balanced view of history. Lessons are carefully planned to expose our pupils to key skills, such as source analysis and historical interpretation, which develop critical and deeper thinking.
Our Geography curriculum develops students' knowledge and understanding of the world around them, focusing on physical and human geography, and how humans interact with and change their environment. We aim to foster curiosity and a love of learning about different cultures, places, features, and landscapes worldwide, while also promoting environmental stewardship and global citizenship.
To deliver an in depth Geography curriculum, we have established a clear and comprehensive plan that is sequenced and builds progressively in terms of knowledge and skills. Our curriculum is designed to focus on a range of topics that are relevant, engaging, and age-appropriate, reflecting the national curriculum's aims and requirements.
Our teaching approach is varied, with a range of strategies that encourage active and independent learning. We use high-quality resources, including maps, photos, atlases, and online tools, to enable students to develop a deep understanding of different geographical concepts and skills. We also encourage students to make connections with other subjects, such as Art, History, and Science, whenever relevant.
We provide opportunities for hands-on and practical experiences, such as fieldwork, outdoor explorations, and investigations, which allow children to apply their knowledge and skills in meaningful and engaging contexts. We also foster cross-cultural understanding and global awareness by exploring and comparing different societies and cultures worldwide, and by addressing global issues such as climate change, migration, and sustainability.