History

This happens in many different ways but few will leave Blundell’s Prep without having explored the wonders of Egyptian mummification, life as a Victorian servant, or the wrath of Henry VIII!

Bringing history to life through a chronological framework is at the heart of the department’s aims. The Pre-Prep follow the KS1 National Curriculum and then at KS2 they go on to explore ‘Ancient Civilizations’ through to the main events of the 20th Century.

Trips to local museums allow the children to get up close to history and all are encouraged to explore the subject beyond the curriculum and the constraints of the classroom.

What is present throughout is the focus on the story, the drama and excitement and the characters that have made the subject so fascinating to explore.

Aims of the History department

• To develop a love of History to last long after their Prep School years!
• To develop a sense of chronology and time through exploring thousands of years of history.
• To develop enquiring minds through the exploration of historical materials.
• To encourage children to interpret, explain and ask historical questions, for example ‘Why did this happen?’ ‘How do we know this is true?’
• To build up knowledge of events and people from the past
• To appreciate thoughts, beliefs, motives and actions of people in the past

Course Content

In the Pre-Prep topic work is used to bring history alive and the children enjoy numerous visits into the community to enjoy the subject. These include trips to Tiverton Museum and local national trust properties at Killerton and Knightshayes.

In the Prep School, the history course is also enhanced by theme days and visiting actors, for example Tudor Day, Greek Day, Victorian Day and World War 1 workshops. As you will see, the children enjoy the opportunity to dress up and immerse themselves in these exciting and fascinating events.