British History Heroes

Bring British history to life as your class explores the remarkable people who fought for change, from William Wilberforce and Mary Seacole to Emmeline Pankhurst and Winston Churchill.

British History Heroes KS2 FAQs

What age group is British History Heroes suitable for?

British History Heroes is designed for Years 3 and 4, making it ideal for lower KS2 History. The lessons introduce children to significant people and changes in British history through accessible historical enquiry and engaging activities.

Which British history heroes will children learn about?

Children study William Wilberforce, Elizabeth Fry, Lord Shaftesbury, Mary Seacole, Emmeline Pankhurst and Winston Churchill. They explore the lives, achievements and influence of each individual before comparing their impact in the final lesson.

What will children learn about Mary Seacole?

The Mary Seacole KS2 lesson explores her life and achievements, including how she developed her knowledge of natural remedies and travelled independently to help British soldiers during the Crimean War. Children consider the significance of her achievements and why she should be remembered.

What will children learn about Lord Shaftesbury?

Children investigate working conditions for Victorian children in mines, factories and as chimney sweeps. They learn about Lord Shaftesbury's campaign to improve these conditions, important laws he helped to pass and his involvement with ragged schools.

Does the scheme cover William Wilberforce and the abolition of the slave trade?

Yes. Children learn about the Transatlantic Slave Trade and investigate how William Wilberforce became involved in the campaign for its abolition. They consider why Wilberforce is regarded as an important figure in British history and explore arguments surrounding abolition.

Does British History Heroes cover women's suffrage?

Yes. Children explore the position of women in the 19th century and learn how Emmeline Pankhurst and the WSPU campaigned for women's suffrage. They also consider different viewpoints and the role of women during the First World War in the eventual achievement of voting rights.

Does the scheme include Winston Churchill and the Second World War?

Yes. Children explore Winston Churchill's life before becoming Prime Minister and investigate his actions during the Second World War and Britain's eventual victory in 1945. They also have opportunities to examine and discuss extracts from some of Churchill's famous speeches.

What historical skills will children develop?

Alongside developing their knowledge of significant people and events, children consider cause and effect, explore different historical viewpoints, use evidence, order events chronologically and make judgements about historical significance. In the final lesson, they select and present evidence to argue which individual they believe was the most influential.

What is included in the British History Heroes scheme?

The seven-lesson scheme includes detailed lesson plans, teaching slides and a range of printable resources such as differentiated worksheets, information sheets and activity cards. Activities include debates, presentations, timelines, historical enquiry and persuasive tasks.