Pupils at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School stepped back in time for the school’s latest Legacy Day, bringing famous figures from history into their classrooms.
As part of the regular themed day, children learned about key individuals from the past and used their stories as inspiration for lessons, discussions and creative activities.
Six times a year, each class focuses on a significant historical figure. For this Legacy Day, pupils explored the lives of Florence Nightingale, Mary Seacole, Tutankhamun, Emmeline Pankhurst and Winston Churchill.
They looked at who these people were, when they lived, what they achieved and why they are still remembered today. Pupils were also encouraged to think about what lessons these lives can offer and how they themselves might make a positive difference.
At St Mary’s, history lessons aim to help children understand how their local area connects to the past and the wider world. Learning is supported through visits, artefacts and visitors that bring historical topics to life.
Legacy Day forms part of a wider programme designed to help pupils link different periods of history and reflect on the impact individuals can have on society.
Lucy Buckland, Headteacher at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, said, “Legacy Day gives our pupils the chance to learn about people who have shaped the world and to think about what they can learn from them. We want children to see themselves as part of a wider human story, one in which they too can make a difference through their choices, values and actions.”
Helen Taylor, CEO of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, said, “Events like Legacy Day help bring history to life and encourage pupils to think about the world around them. They support children to grow in confidence, curiosity and understanding, while helping them recognise the part they can play in their communities.”
