Humanities

Humanities refers to those areas of the curriculum delivered through the subjects of geography and history. Experiences in the humanities should promote in pupils an appreciation of their geographical location and their social communities in the context of the wider world and how these have changed and developed in the course of time. These experiences should enhance children’s potential to become effective, caring participants in society and promote continuing study and interests for life.

Class teachers teach geography and history across the school. The syllabus is broadly based upon the best parts of the National Curriculum supplemented with many additional ideas drawn from the wealth of experience of the teachers of the subject. Trips out form an essential but enjoyable and practical way of learning about the world. 

History has a significant contribution to make to the improvement of all children’s literacy skills; work is aimed at studying, understanding and using text and pictorial material.

Use is made of visits to areas of local interest. From September 2010, we will use the Galore Park course where we will study ancient and modern history.

Humanities at Oakfield is underpinned by the following aims - that our children will be able to:

• construct reasoned arguments which lead to informed judgements;
• develop attitudes which promote understanding and sensitivity towards the values and attitudes of others;
• understand the opportunities and constraints that shape people’s lives;
• develop an awareness of self and others and their interaction and interdependence with the environment;
• develop an understanding of social, political and economic factors as dynamics of society.