The main focus of this topic is the exploration of the past beyond living memory through a topic that is sure to spark pupils’ interest and curiosity. There are plenty of opportunities to investigate a way of life very different from our own whilst always keeping in mind the need for pupils to question how we can possibly know so much about the distant past. Because there are lots of local castles to visit pupils can see with their own eyes much about the castle layout and can see where fits in the development of castles over time. In this way the topic contributes significantly to pupils’ understanding of change and continuity. Although the focus here is quintessentially history you will be aware of how rich this topic is for well-planned cross-curricular work.
