History
An introduction to A-level History
A brief overview from our A-level teachers.
What does it involve?
Students study three units, two of whichcover historical periods, The Tudors 1485-1603 and The American Dream: Reality and Illusion 1945-1980. Each of the units reflects on the political, economic and social changes within the countries, across the relevant period. Students study the concepts of government and opposition, ideas and ideology, social division and cultural change.
There are many reasons for studying History and the principal aim of the department is to encourage and cultivate curiosity in students, thus enabling them to develop skills of research and enquiry.
History draws on a plethora of skills: analysis, evaluation, independent study, management of information, a capacity to express and articulate and the ability to write clearly and concisely.
How is it assessed?
Each of the three units is assessed through a written examination. The third unit consists of an historical investigation comprised of a 3,000-3,500 word study about Witchcraft in Europe during the 15th and 16th centuries.
Which skills or qualifications do I need?
Students will usually have achieved a Grade 6 in GCSE History. However studying History at GCSE is not compulsory and students wishing to follow this pathway should talk to the Head of Faculty.
University or employment prospects?
Studying history hones skills that are highly sought-after by employers and history graduates can go on to anything and everything. Careers in politics, journalism, PR, marketing, consultancy or business are not unusual, but this list is by no means exhaustive.