Probably one of the most captivating of KS2 history topics, the Vikings present wonderful opportunities to capitalise on pupils’ fascination and to do some in-depth work on using sources and interpretations in particular. Not only do pupils learn that our stereotypical view of the Vikings needs to be challenged they also draw on their knowledge of sources to help them to explain why the Vikings had such a bad press and how recent archaeological finds can be used to restore the Vikings’ reputation as settlers, skilled craftsmen and traders, and not just raiders. Best taught alongside the Anglo-Saxons with whom they fought for control for almost two centuries, the period in which England as a nation emerged for the first time.
