This History teacher video focuses on the disciplinary skill of historical interpretation, as outlined in the National Curriculum. It highlights the idea that there can be multiple valid interpretations of the same event, shaped by the author’s perspective, bias, purpose, and the nature of the source. Pupils learn that primary sources are subjective and must be analysed carefully to understand what they reveal—and what they might leave out. The role of the historian is to weigh evidence and construct interpretations supported by reasoning.

The video explains how Kapow Primary’s scheme builds this skill progressively, helping children to both form their own interpretations and understand those of others. For example, in Year 3, pupils analyse a log boat and are encouraged to justify their ideas using evidence. In later years, they compare contrasting interpretations of events, such as the Roman invasion of Britain, exploring how different sources and new evidence shape historical understanding. The video emphasises that interpretations are not fixed and can change over time.