What is historical significance?The starting quote is taken from the address of Michael Spinney to the Independent Association of Prep Schools. His comments are typical of those that have been made in national political and education fora ever since the introduction of a history National Curriculum. At their heart is a belief that there are some events or people, in Michael Spinney's case Winston Churchill, that are so significant that all secondary school pupils should study them. Also implicit within in this assertion is the belief that there is an agreed or given history which should be transmitted. It is precisely how mistaken a belief this is that a mature understanding of historical significance can reveal for our children.