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A Journey Through Time – A Year of History at Channing Junior School
This year in History, our pupils have embarked on an exciting journey through time, developing a deeper understanding of different historical periods, their place in the broader timeline, and how the lives of people were shaped by the world around them. Through exploration, artefact investigation, role play and celebration, our young historians have been learning how to piece together the past—one story at a time.
We began the Autumn Term with a powerful and joyful celebration of Black History Month, themed A Carnival of Heroes. With the support of Bigfoot Education, pupils sang, danced and celebrated the achievements of Black men and women who helped shape our society.
EYFS pupils were treated to a memorable workshop based on the story My Friend Flo, inspired by the true journey of Floella Benjamin. Through role play and storytelling, our Reception children explored what it meant for a young girl to leave her home in Trinidad and arrive in 1960s London as part of the Windrush generation. The story brought to life themes of friendship, hope and courage, giving our youngest pupils a meaningful and age-appropriate introduction to this important part of history.
In November, Year 6 led a poignant assembly for Armistice Day, commemorating the moment fighting ceased on the Western Front in 1918. At 11am, the school paused in silence to honour not only those who lost their lives in the First World War, but also all those affected by conflict since. The maturity and respect shown by our pupils was deeply moving.
Year 3 took part in an exciting Museum Takeover Day at Lauderdale House, stepping into the shoes of curators and coin designers as they explored the lives of the building’s former inhabitants. The opportunity to handle historical artefacts and learn about fascinating figures from the past brought the era vividly to life.
As the new year began, we celebrated a truly special moment: our school’s 140th anniversary! At the Junior School, a commemorative lunch was very much enjoyed by the pupils.
Assemblies throughout the year reflected historical themes. Year 3 took us deep into the heart of Ancient Egypt, sharing fascinating facts—including the story of Pharaoh Pepi, who smeared his servants in honey to keep flies away! Year 1 led us on a time-travelling tour of toys through the decades, showing how childhood has changed—and, in some ways, stayed the same—over the years.
Workshops across the school deepened our historical knowledge, from Year 4’s thrilling Aztec Day to Year 2’s exploration of The World of Flight, and a powerful session with a Holocaust visitor. This offered older pupils a reflective and meaningful engagement, especially poignant as we marked the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau.
As the summer term arrived, Year 2 celebrated Monarchs Day in royal style. Dressed in regal attire, they enjoyed a traditional tea party, learning about the kings and queens who have shaped our nation.
Meanwhile, Year 3 marched proudly into Roman Britain with a visit to the site of Verulamium in St Albans. Wearing their Celtic and Roman finery, they explored stunning mosaics, the ancient hypocaust and a treasure trove of Roman artefacts—enriching their understanding of life in Britain under Roman rule.
It has been a truly remarkable year of historical discovery. From ancient civilisations to modern-day heroes, our pupils have explored a diverse and inspiring range of topics. As we look ahead to next year, we can’t wait to see where our time-travelling adventures will take us next!