Teaching history as a non-specialist
An induction course providing essential support for non-specialists teaching Key Stage 3 and GCSE history
Are you teaching history without a history background? Whether you’re an RS, geography, or general humanities teacher picking up some Key Stage 3 history – or have found yourself unexpectedly teaching a bit of GCSE – this flexible, supportive induction course is designed just for you.
With a series of short, focused presentations from experienced history educators, this course will build your confidence and subject knowledge, demystify the structure of the history curriculum, and give you the tools to deliver high-quality, accessible lessons without overwhelming you with theory or jargon.
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Who is this course for?
- • Non-specialist teachers delivering history at Key Stage 3 or GCSE
- • RS or geography teachers looking for guidance on teaching history
- • Early-career or trainee teachers preparing to apply for humanities roles
- • Heads of Department seeking a ready-to-go CPD resource for new team members
Whether you’re covering history for one year or want to build your long-term confidence, this is a practical, low-commitment way to start. -
How is the course structured?
The course content will be published in September 2025. It includes:
- • 10 short video presentations (total running time approx. 90 minutes)
- • Watch anytime, with no live webinars or tasks
- • Practical and light-touch, with a focus on real classroom needs
- • Accessible for individuals or departments
All participants will also receive a downloadable resource guide signposting key HA publications, trusted sources for subject knowledge, where to find high-quality clips and visuals, and practical classroom resources to use right away. -
What content will the course cover?
Session
What you'll learn
Welcome to the history classroom
Why history teaching is rewarding, and how this course supports you
What is a history curriculum?
How history curricula are structured (core vs. hinterland), and what that means for you
Building subject knowledge as a non-specialist
Where to go for trusted content, and how to avoid common pitfalls (including AI)
Substantive and disciplinary knowledge
What history teachers mean by these terms, and why they matter
Disciplinary concepts made simple
Key concepts like causation, evidence, and change — clearly explained
Why enquiry matters
How enquiry questions shape lessons and support historical thinking
Teaching interpretations
Helping pupils engage critically with historical material
Planning a solid history lesson
Structuring effective lessons using reading, storytelling, questioning, and imagery
Delivering sensitive or controversial history
Teaching challenging topics with care and confidence
Helping pupils to write in history
Simple, shared strategies for supporting historical writing
Supporting pupils with SEND in history
Inclusive approaches to literacy, emotional needs, and classroom access
Help! I’m teaching GCSE!
An introduction to specifications, exam expectations, and practical entry points
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Why should I choose this course?
- • Quick, useful, and encouraging - designed to help you feel ready, not overwhelmed
- • Grounded in classroom realities - built by history teachers, for history teachers
- • Perfect for individuals or departments - easy to share and revisit
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How do I take part?
The course content will be published in September 2025 and it is now available for pre-purchase. The content will be released on this page on 9 September 2025.
The course is charged at £75 (inclusive of VAT). Payment is available by card only.
Please note that to register and access the content you will either need to have an active HA membership or a free basic account. You will need to be logged in to your account before you access this course. If you would like to become a member please click here. If you would like to register for a free basic account please click here.
For any enquiries, please contact events@history.org.uk. Please read the HA CPD terms and conditions before registering.
This resource is available to purchase
Instant-access price for all users: £75.00
Thank you for purchasing this course
- Thank you for purchasing this course
Course content
- Welcome to the history classroom
- What is a history curriculum?
- Building subject knowledge as a non-specialist
- Substantive and disciplinary knowledge
- Disciplinary concepts made simple
- Why enquiry matters
- Teaching interpretations
- Planning a solid history lesson
- Delivering sensitive or controversial history
- Helping pupils to write in history
- Supporting pupils with SEND in history
- Help! I’m teaching GCSE!