In this History video, teachers are introduced to the skills needed to support the children in using census records as a meaningful historical source.

The video explores how census data can drive local inquiries, strengthen disciplinary knowledge and develop inference skills, enabling the children to work like real historians with primary evidence. Teachers see how to assess the reliability of census information, interpret Victorian terminology and explain both the value and the limitations of what is recorded. Clear guidance helps teachers break down each step of the process so that the children can investigate real lives from the past with growing confidence and draw thoughtful and well-supported conclusions.

This teacher video is part of Kapow Primary’s History skills videos, designed to build teachers’ confidence and skills in supporting the children to investigate real lives from the past.

See more of our Key stage 2 History scheme of work.

• History, Year 6, What can the census tell us about local areas?