Helping children discover the story of the place they call home

Why does local history matter?

Because every child deserves to feel that they belong.

When children understand the story of the place where they live, they begin to see themselves as part of something bigger. They develop a stronger sense of identity, pride in their community and a deeper understanding of how their local area has been shaped over time.

The Heritage Schools Programme helps schools use local history to answer one of the most important questions children can ask:

"How did this place become the place it is today?"

Join us for an inspiring day at Nottingham Castle, where we will explore practical ways to use local heritage to engage children in meaningful historical enquiry. Through maps, aerial photographs, timelines, buildings, archives and the stories hidden within our streets, we will discover how local history can become a powerful tool for developing historical understanding, curiosity and a genuine sense of belonging.

This is far more than learning dates and famous people. It is about helping children connect with the place they live, understand the communities that came before them and recognise that they, too, are now part of Nottingham's continuing story.

Throughout the day you will:

• Explore practical approaches to teaching local history across the primary curriculum.
• Discover how local stories can enrich the National Curriculum.
• Learn how to use maps, aerial photographs, census records and historical sources to create engaging enquiries.
• Consider how chronology can help children understand how today's city has developed over hundreds and even thousands of years.
• Take part in a guided heritage walk around Nottingham, modelling activities that can be adapted for your own local area.
• Leave with ideas, resources and renewed confidence to create memorable learning experiences for your pupils.

Whether your school is in the heart of Nottingham or elsewhere across the county, the principles explored during the day can be adapted to any locality.

By the end of the session you will have the knowledge and inspiration to help your pupils understand not only the history of where they live, but why that history matters today.

Because every place has a story.

And every child is part of that story.