History is taught in mixed ability form groups throughout Key Stage 3. Students in years 7, 8 and 9 study medieval Britain including the Norman conquest and the Wars of the Roses; the making of the United Kingdom looking at the Tudor and Stuart regimes; aspects of the 18th and 19th century industrial and social development and 20th century events with an emphasis on World War II.

At GCSE we currently follow a course in modern European and world history. The units cover the Cold War, Germany in the 1920s and 30s and Britain from c.1931 - 1951 and develop source analysis skills as well as the display of knowledge and understanding through structured answers. Coursework on 1920s and 30s America will feature as part of the course and will be completed in controlled conditions.

Our AS and A2 courses combine the study of England under the Tudors including the Mid Tudor crisis and Tudor rebellions and aspects of American history, including the Civil War and the fight for civil rights in the 20th century.

At all levels we encourage the development of skills for use in history such as interpreting and evaluating sources and formulating and justifying argument. It is our aim to ensure all students benefit from the study of the past and as a result become better citizens of the future. A valuable part of this comes from the opportunity to participate in visits and outside lectures. Currently, we run a day’s visit to Medieval St Albans for year 7, Hatfield House for year 8 and the battlefields of World War I in France or Belgium for year 9. GCSE students usually have the opportunity to take part in a visit to Berlin and also attend a revision conference to help with exam technique. AS and A2 students often have the opportunity to attend lectures given by leading experts, such as David Starkey and in recent years we have travelled to the USA, to New York and Washington, in order to enhance the understanding of America’s politics as well as her history.

Course Content

History teaches students the skills of analysis and argument. Students are encouraged to express their own opinion which they have formed through their own research into various historical topics. An understanding of the past can help to explain events in the present and an ability to recognise the numerous interpretations of events and accept them as valid helps students to interact. We hope to show that history is not a thing of the past, but a concept of the present and the future.

AS

The course involves the simultaneous study of American and English history. In Year 12 modules covering the origins of the American Civil War and the Civil War itself as well as the reign of Henry VIII and the mid-Tudor Crisis are followed.

A2

In Year 13, modules looking at Roosevelt's America, civil rights in America, Tudor rebellions and Elizabeth I are studied as well as the coursework element being completed.

Learning Methods and Assessment

AS and A2

There will be a full subject based induction course explaining the skills necessary for the study of history. These skills are then developed throughout the programme of study and are supported by study guides and other resources such as videos and the internet.

Students are expected to read extensively to help them develop arguments, the ability to contribute to discussions in lessons and to enhance understanding. They are required to organise information and present material in a number of ways.

Individual tutorials can be arranged for students who find aspects of the course difficult or wish to discuss essays further. These can also be used to review progress and to discuss targets for future development.
When available students will be given the opportunity to attend relevant lecture days with leading historians of the periods being studied giving the up-to-date knowledge that can be assimilated into students’ own work.

Expectations of Students

History students are required to prepare for lessons, make notes, and submit essays/assessments punctually. They will be expected to work in a “professional” manner, drawing on all of the resources of the department.

History A level teaches the skills of analysis and argument. Students are encouraged to express their own opinion which they have formed through their own research into various historical topics. An understanding of the past can help to explain events in the present and an ability to recognise the numerous interpretations of events and accept them as valid helps students to interact. We hope to show that history is not a thing of the past, but a concept of the present and the future.

Careers Implications

History A level is recognised by all universities as a rigorous preparation for degree courses and provides opportunities in the business world, law, the civil service, education and archaeology. Anyone who studies history should emerge with a sound research based knowledge and the ability to apply the skills acquired to a vast range of vocations.