This History video introduces teachers to using census records as primary sources to investigate local history and understand how communities have changed over time. It explains what the census is, how it has been used in England, Wales and Scotland since 1801 and how records from 1841 to 1921 are now available for historical research. Teachers will learn how to guide pupils in examining census data to trace changes in occupation, population, housing and migration and how to access and interpret this information through national and local archives.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s History – Census videos. It supports teachers in delivering enquiry-led lessons by providing practical guidance on using census returns and complementary sources.

See more of our Year 6 History scheme of work.

• History, Year 6, What can the census tell us about local areas? Lesson 6: Who lived in our local area in the past?
• History, Year 6, What can the census tell us about local areas?
• History, Y5/6 (B), What can the census tell us about local areas? Lesson 6: Who lived in our local area in the past?
• History, Y5/6 (B), What can the census tell us about local areas?