History

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What is History?

A level history is the study of who we are and how our society has developed in the way it has. Students develop strong analytical and evaluative skills, making use of reading, debate and written work, as well as looking at key documentaries.

Why study History?

It will give an insight into the variety of ways in which people have lived in the past and an understanding of other cultures and lives. It can teach you how to argue convincingly and how to spot the weaknesses in other people’s arguments. It will help you to understand how the modern world has been shaped by the past. It involves a rich variety of primary and secondary sources.

Is History right for you?

Students who enjoy finding out about the past. Those who enjoy reading, writing and debating. This is a serious subject, but it one of the most interesting and intriguing. If you want to know why the world is the way it is today…study the past! The course will be assessed at the end of the two-year course with 2 exams (2.5 hrs), which will consist of long essays, and an extended piece of coursework.

What will you study?

• The Tudors: England 1485 to 1547
  Examined. The reigns of Henry VII and Henry VIII: change and continuity in government, religion and ideas, society and economy, foreign relations and royal authority
• America: a nation divided, 1845 to 1861
  Examined. The origins of the American Civil War: how important were slavery and the economy, and how did the differences between north and south raise tension?
• Russia 1855 to 1953
  Non-examined assessment. A supported independent extended essay on the Russia of the later Tsars, the Russian Revolution, and Lenin’s and Stalin’s Russia
• The Tudors: England 1547 to 1603
  Examined. The reigns of Edward VI, Mary I and Elizabeth, focusing on religious change and its impact on foreign policy
• America: a nation divided, 1861 to 1877
  Examined. The course of the civil war and its aftermath, including slavery, abolitionism and civil rights, and how far the United States changed

What happens outside lessons?

Students will be introduced to the course via other historians, journals and documentaries. We also have links with local universities who support us on our journey. There are weekly reading tasks to support students. Students are not expected to know everything in advance, so much of this is supported.

Where can History take you?

A level history is a well-regarded qualification which provides a strong foundation not only for the further study of history but also for many other university degrees (politics or law, for instance). It is particularly useful as a preparation for careers which require critical thinking, such as law, management or journalism. History is also the obvious route into museum- and heritage-related careers.

What subjects go well with History?

Those who study English, geography, philosophy, politics, sociology and other humanities would most benefit from this course. Some students enjoy studying history alongside sciences, especially biology and chemistry; they find that the different skill set required in history enables them to develop greater academic breadth.

What are the entry requirements?

• General requirements: Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above.

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