Beyond the subject - exploring content decision-making of the Key Stage 1 history curriculum in England

Crawford, H. and Harris, R. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8606-5515 (2026) Beyond the subject - exploring content decision-making of the Key Stage 1 history curriculum in England. Education 3-13. ISSN 0300-4279 doi: 10.1080/03004279.2026.2674984

Abstract/Summary

There is minimal research into history curriculum planning in the early primary phase. Given the extensive debates about curriculum for older children, this is a major omission and ignores the importance of this phase. Based on semi-structured interviews with five history subject leaders, this study shows content decision-making is informed by both present and future aspirations for the child as a learner of history. Decisions are also informed by a desire for purposeful subject and phase connections. The study recommends closer attention is given to the distinctiveness of the early primary phase when constructing the history curriculum for young children.