While we go above and beyond the national curriculum in our history lessons, it is such a vast and fascinating subject that there is always more to discover.
This term, as part of their enrichment studies for history, our prep boys have been delving deeper into many areas of history, presenting their findings in whatever format they wish. So far, boys have submitted a VE Day fruitcake, a model of the Titanic sinking, a poem about 2020, a lego animation on the Ice Age, an essay about Harriet Tubman and PowerPoint presentations about everything from the Vikings to 9/11 to the Incas. The range and creativity of their work and their mature insight and understanding have been awe-inspiring.
On the day that the United States of America swore in their new president, Jacob Adedeji (Y6) wrote this brilliant essay on Harriet Tubman. A slave born in Maryland, Harriet Tubman escaped and then devoted her life to helping others to escape slavery using the ‘Underground Railroad’. However, Jacob’s essay is far more than merely an account of her life; it displays true empathy and understanding—encouraging the reader to put themselves in her shoes.
View Jacob’s essay and drawing
It is clear to see through the boys’ enrichment work they are gaining deeper insight and understanding of how history and their lives today are intertwined. They are learning to develop a greater appreciation for multicultural influences within their communities, how they fit into the story of our country, and indeed the world.
“We feel the study of history is vital for young boys. Apart from the inherent fascination of learning about our ancestors, both recent and not so recent, the study of history allows us to understand ourselves and others better; if taught and learnt well, it develops empathy, strong analytical skills, kind citizenship, and a collective opportunity to move forward, recognise and learn from past mistakes, and be part of creating a brighter future for everyone.”
We look forward to seeing more of the boys’ work as they explore, question and grow to understand the past and its impact on the present day.