This Kapow pupil video is part of the Kapow History scheme of work. It introduces John Blanke, a trumpeter at the royal courts of Henry VII and Henry VIII, and the first known person of African descent in British history with both written records and a portrait. John worked as a musician at important royal events, including funerals, coronations, and jousting tournaments, and was paid a daily wage for his service.

This Kapow pupil video is part of the Kapow History scheme of work. It helps pupils explore the idea of historical significance by listening to two historians, Rebecca and Rosa, as they explain what makes a person or event important in history. They discuss how historians ask questions, look for evidence, and decide what stories are worth telling. Pupils will learn that anyone can be historically significant – from famous leaders to everyday people – depending on the questions being asked. Examples include King Charles and George Floyd, whose lives and actions have had lasting impact. Pupils are encouraged to think critically, ask questions, and use criteria like the “Five Rs” to decide what matters in history.

A History video exploring how global trade, including the Silk Road, connected people and cultures and shaped cities like Lahore.

This Kapow pupil video is part of the Kapow History scheme of work. It explores how Sikh teachings and leadership helped people stand up against unfair treatment during the time of the Mughal Empire and the founding of the Sikh Empire. Pupils learn how some Mughal rulers tried to force others to change their religion, leading to a difficult time for many communities. Sikh Gurus like Guru Arjan Dev Ji and Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji bravely stood up for the right to choose your own beliefs, even when it meant sacrificing their lives.

The video continues by introducing Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the formation of the Khalsa in 1699. Pupils discover how the Khalsa was created to protect people, stand against injustice and follow the teachings of the Gurus. Later, Maharaja Ranjit Singh led the Sikh Empire using these values. He created a peaceful kingdom where everyone could live freely and follow their own beliefs. His leadership showed how the Sikh values of fairness, courage, and compassion helped create a more equal and respectful society.

This Kapow pupil video is part of the Kapow History scheme of work. It explores the life and leadership of Ranjit Singh, who became the first Maharaja of the Sikh Empire. At a time when Punjab was divided into twelve different Sikh groups called Misls, Ranjit Singh had the vision to unite them. Using clever strategies, strong leadership, and peaceful agreements, he brought them together to create a powerful empire. He was known for his bravery, fairness, and for treating everyone equally, no matter their religion.

Ranjit Singh ruled the Sikh Empire from 1801 until his death in 1839. He made the city of Lahore his capital and turned it into a busy centre for trade, culture and learning. He built a strong army to protect the empire but also worked hard to keep peace across the region. Ranjit Singh’s leadership helped the Sikh Empire grow and become one of the most respected powers in South Asia. His story shows how unity, respect and wise leadership can create lasting change.

This Kapow pupil video is part of the Kapow History scheme of work. It explores the story of the Windrush generation and how people from the Caribbean came to live and work in Britain after the Second World War.

You’ll learn why the Empire Windrush ship arrived in 1948 and what life was like for the people who came. Many faced racism and hardship, but they also brought music, food and culture that helped shape the Britain we know today. The video explains how the Windrush generation showed strength, resilience and pride, and why they are remembered and celebrated today.