History itself is interesting and enjoyable. The topics studied, and the skills developed, offer students the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and understanding, and prepare themselves for a number of careers and higher education courses.

Methods of Teaching

We encourage discussion and presentation work by the students, and seek to develop the skills involved in dealing with complex ideas which are expressed through argument in continuous prose. At AS Level, the course builds on and extends the expertise gained at GCSE, and further develops skills of investigation, and historical explanation. At A2, in addition to skills of historical investigation and explanation, skills of evaluation and analysis are developed, through the consideration of controversial historical debate. We also offer the opportunity to attend “update” conferences. These and other visits which may be offered will incur costs to the students.

Assessment

AS
Unit 1 - Britain 1483 - 1529
Unit 2 - The Impact of Stalin’s Leadership in the USSR 1929 - 1941

A2
Unit 3 - Triumph and Collapse: Russia and the USSR, 1941 - 1991
Unit 4 - An Historical Enquiry: Tudor England 1529-1629

What We Expect From You

Successful History students must show an enthusiasm for the subject, a willingness to
research independently and a desire to engage in wider reading. Students must be organised and well motivated. GCSE History is not a requirement. Students should have at least 5 GCSE A*-C grades..

 
Future Prospects

The course is demanding and combines well with other Arts or Science subjects. There are many higher education courses in History, and many combined honours degrees offer the chance to study History modules. In addition, the subject offers an excellent basis for applications to many other higher education courses, such as Law.