Understanding our world, past and present
At Pownall, Humanities brings together History, Geography and Religious Education to help children understand who they are, where they come from and how they relate to the wider world.
These subjects are not taught as isolated facts. They are about perspective. They build critical thinking, empathy and the ability to question with confidence. Children learn that the world did not simply happen – it has been shaped by choices, beliefs, decisions and consequences.
Humanities helps pupils make sense of society, culture and responsibility. It encourages them to look beyond themselves, to consider other viewpoints and to form thoughtful, well-evidenced opinions.
Understanding how the past shapes the future, history at Pownall develops analytical thinkers.
From an early age, children are encouraged to ask why events happened, not simply when. They examine evidence, debate interpretations and explore cause and consequence. Lessons are centred on people – their decisions, motivations and circumstances – helping pupils build empathy as well as knowledge.
In Prep, pupils investigate independently, analyse sources and construct reasoned arguments. They are taught to evidence their views and challenge assumptions. History is never passive; it is active, questioning and discussion-led.
By the time they leave Form 6, pupils understand how the past shapes the present and influences the future. They leave with context, perspective and confidence in their ability to think critically.
Studying within the historic setting of Pownall Hall itself adds depth to this experience. Surrounded by centuries of heritage, pupils are reminded daily that history is not distant – it lives around them.
History in the upper Prep years is led by Mr David Goulbourn.
With experience teaching History from Pre-Prep through to A Level across a range of independent schools, Mr Goulbourn brings both academic rigour and enthusiasm to the classroom. An award-winning historian and Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, he is passionate about developing pupils’ analytical thinking and love of enquiry.
Under his guidance, pupils learn to interrogate sources, debate interpretations and develop structured, evidence-based arguments – skills that prepare them exceptionally well for senior school and beyond.
Mr David Goulbourn – BA (Hons), PGCE, FRHistS
Seeing the world clearly. Geography at Pownall develops global awareness and environmental understanding.
Children begin by exploring their immediate surroundings before widening their lens to the United Kingdom and the wider world. They use maps, atlases and fieldwork to build practical geographical skills. They ask questions about how people live, how environments differ and how human decisions shape the planet.
As they progress through Prep, pupils become increasingly independent in enquiry. They collect information, compare locations and consider different viewpoints. They learn how communities are connected and how sustainability matters for future generations.
Geography equips pupils not only with knowledge of place, but with responsibility towards it.
Respect, understanding and reflection, Religious Education at Pownall encourages thoughtful discussion about belief, identity and values.
Pupils study Christianity alongside other major world religions including Judaism, Islam, Sikhism and Hinduism. Lessons explore key beliefs, festivals and traditions, helping children understand both similarities and differences.
Learning is enriched through visits and visiting speakers. Our local Reverend visits regularly for services and reflection. Members of our own community share their faith experiences, and visiting speakers, including a Rabbi and Sikh parents, bring understanding to life.
RE at Pownall is not about instruction. It is about respect. Children are encouraged to ask questions, listen carefully and consider different viewpoints with maturity.
Humanities develops skills that extend far beyond the classroom:
• Critical thinking
• Argument and debate
• Empathy and perspective
• Research and evidence
• Cultural awareness
Pupils leave Pownall informed, thoughtful and aware of their place in the world. They understand how history shapes society, how geography shapes opportunity and how beliefs shape communities.
They are prepared not only to succeed, but to contribute.
Discover how our Humanities curriculum broadens perspective and builds critical thinkers
Explore the next subject in the Pownall curriculum or arrange a visit to see Humanities lessons in action.
