British values and history
A perspective from the Historical Association
British values according to the recent government publication,‘actively promotes the fundamental British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs…’
How does this fit in with the place of history within the National Curriculum?
The one thing a good history education really helps develop is an understanding of diversity; of the differences both within and between people. This is absolutely fundamental to an understanding of history. People are different, and act in different ways, even in the same situation. By helping students to understand this we help to develop a feeling of respect and tolerance. Many times in the history classroom students are asked, or wonder, what would I do in that situation? Would I do the same, or act differently? By also exploring causation – ‘Whydid they do that?’ – we help students get to grips with the motives for actions – good or bad – and an understanding of difference that is crucial in understanding the 21st century.
The content we choose to study in history also has a part to play in helping develop British values. Significance is a powerful concept here – why are we studying this topic, as opposed to that? Why is it important? And to whom? Interpretations also show that it is perfectly acceptable to hold different views – as long as they are supported by reasoned evidence – of the same event or person. At Key Stage 3 one of the enduring themes is power, and who runs the country. By showing the struggles ordinary people had to undergo in order to be able to vote and have a say in their own government, we emphasise the importance of voting, of participation, of engaging in the way the country is run. In the process as historians we would recognise differing opinions – some women were in favour of women’s suffrage; some against; [just the same as men;] but that eventually an agreement acceptable to all was reached. By carefully choosing our content we help students build a coherent picture of British and World history.
The Historical Association believes one of the best ways to develop a tolerant and active citizenship is through a strong and effective history curriculum, well taught by specialist teachers.
Alf Wilkinson Dec 2014.
Historical Association
In partnership with the Global Learning Programme