History
History combines the excitement of exploration and discovery, involving the investigation of pivotal periods of change which have shaped the world we find ourselves in today. History is about research and enquiry, forming arguments and reaching balanced judgements based on evidence.
GCSE
History nurtures essential academic and life skills - questioning, critical thinking, research and effective communication - that support success across a wide range of subjects and careers. GCSE History helps students become thoughtful, informed individuals, well-prepared for higher education and sought-after by employers in fields like law, journalism, business, education, public service, and politics. It is a strong foundation for ambitious futures.
What will I learn at GCSE?
The IGCSE course concentrates on key events in the Twentieth Century that have helped to create our world today. Through a range of activities and an investigative approach to learning, pupils will be taught to analyse and interpret information, construct balanced arguments and arrive at informed judgements. In the Summer Term of Year 10, there is an opportunity to visit Berlin, a city that often found itself at the centre of many of the momentous events that we study in the course.
How is the course structured?
The syllabus itself is broken down into three parts:
- Two depth studies: Development of Dictatorship in Germany, 1918-45 followed by Superpower Relations and the Cold War, 1943-72
- One investigation topic: East Germany, 1958-90
- One breadth study in change: The Middle East: conflict, crisis and change, 1917– 2012
How is the course examined?
The Course is assessed by two examination papers, each lasting 1 hour 30 minutes. Paper 1 addresses both depth studies and Paper 2 includes the investigation topic and breadth study.
A Level
History offers the thrill of discovery as you explore key points that have shaped the modern world. It is a subject built on enquiry - investigating the past, analysing evidence and developing well-reasoned arguments. Our lessons are lively and encourage discussion, debate and critical thinking as we examine historical sources and challenge different interpretations.
What will I learn at A Level?
Our aim is to help you to think independently, ask questions and reach your own supported judgements. The content of the course covers a rich mix of Medieval and Modern topics that offer something entirely different to GCSE. You will examine the Crusades (c.1095-1204) and the impact on the Middle East and western world, and explore the Angevin Empire to understand key developments in medieval government, society, and the Church. Our study of US Civil Rights and Race Relations (c.1850-2009) traces the struggle for equality from the abolition of slavery to the election of Barack Obama. This final unit gives a good grounding the the US Political system and its recent history ensuring it has great value for today.
How is the course structured?
Four units are covered over two academic years. In Year 12, we focus on the Crusades, which contains an in-depth study of historical interpretations on the Fourth Crusade, and US Civil Rights and Race Relations. In Year 13, we look at the Angevin Empire in the reign of Henry II 1154-1189 and tackle coursework.
How is the course examined?
You will sit three written exams at the end of Year 13: the Crusades (30%), US Civil Rights (30%), and the Angevin Empire (20%).
The final 20% comes from a coursework essay (3,000–4,000 words) on a historical topic of your choice. This is a chance to dive deep into an area that fascinates you, developing your research and writing skills. The coursework is marked in school and moderated externally by the examination board, Edexcel.
What could I do next?
Well, what do you want to do next? History sharpens essential skills like critical thinking and research, opening doors to careers in law, politics, journalism, business and beyond. Whilst the course has a utilitarian value, more importantly it will make you consider change, the origins of information and differences in interpretation, and so help prepare you for the challenges of tomorrow’s world.