‘SEND’ is a vast topic that encompasses many needs. Added to that, there is a lot of general support for teachers from experts relating to specific needs. But what about specific support for teaching history? How can we make history lessons more accessible for all? The Secondary Committee has put together a new resource called ‘Making History Accessible‘ to help.

Back in 2017, Richard Kerridge wrestled with some of the issues of supporting students who are not high attaining in history – for whatever reason. He explained how to avoid these students being left with a ‘thin gruel of a curriculum’. His article gives lots of ideas for building relationship and raising the confidence of students who are struggling.

Different SEND profiles can mean that students struggle with specific aspects of history. To support colleagues you will find a list of materials under the heading ‘My Students Struggle With…’ For example, ‘… with abstract concepts’ and ‘… with tone and nuance’. Each example has an A4 explainer, and a short film clip giving a practical explanation focused on how to support students in class. The Committee will be adding to these materials over the course of the next year.

Of course, not all students identified as SEND are lower attaining students in history. The Making History Resource recognises this. For example, you can find a short film from a teacher explaining how to support high-attaining neuro-diverse students in history.

Every student has an entitlement to learn history and to high quality history teaching. These new resources are designed to support history teachers to make this a reality.