This paper is based on the premise that controversial issues related to diversity are an important aspect of teaching and learning with all pupils. It was stimulated by a newspaper article which criticised teaching Key Stage 1 (5–7-year-old children) about Grace O'Malley, an Irish Queen. We argue that sixteenth century Anglo-Irish relations can be taught across all key stages and illustrate this through a detailed examination of how this was undertaken with Key Stage 1 pupils. To support our case we draw on literature related to diversity in a range of contexts and age groups