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History is a challenging and rewarding A-Level subject. Students who take History do not just learn facts; they develop skills in analysis, problem solving, independent learning and communication.

Students who study history have the opportunity to explore events that have shaped the world we live in. Our topics cover a wide chronological, geographic and thematic range: from late medieval times to the present day; from the United States to Russia; from the English Reformation to the US Civil Rights campaigns of the 1960s.

Our students also develop a number of important academic skills, including the ability to critically evaluate source material, and produce written arguments that are well structured, coherently expressed and fully supported by the careful selection of evidence.

Entry Criteria

6 in GCSE History

Companion Subjects

Law

English Language

English Literature

Psychology

Sociology

Business

Career Paths

  • Legal Profession

  • Law Enforcement

  • Journalism

  • Archaeology

  • Museum Curator

  • Teaching

  • Business Management

  • Civil Service

Subject Intent

History is a challenging and rewarding A-Level subject. Students that take History do not just learn facts; they develop skills in analysis, problem solving, independent learning and communication.

Students who study History have the opportunity to explore events that have shaped the world we live in. Our topics cover a wide chronological, geographic and thematic range; from late medieval times to the present day; from the United States, to Russia; from the English Reformation to the US Civil Rights campaigns of the 1960s.

Course Overview

Unit 1: England 1485–1558: the Early Tudors

Unit 2: Democracy and Dictatorships in Germany 1919–1963

Unit 3: Thematic Study: Civil Rights in the USA 1865–1992

Unit 4: Non exam assessment: independent essay where students analyse a chosen historical topic using primary and secondary sources.

Assessment Breakdown

  • Unit 1: 50 marks, 25%, source analysis and essay
  • Unit 2: 30 marks, 15%, short answer and essay
  • Unit 3: 80 marks, 40%, Interpretation and essay
  • Unit 4 NEA: 3–4,000-word supervised essay, 20%

Homework & Independent Study

  • Regular practice with exam-style questions, focusing on source analysis and essays
  • Wider reading around your chosen topics and themes
  • Research and scaffolded tasks to support the NEA
  • Reflections on historians’ interpretations and local or digital archives

Enrichment & Skills Development

  • Sessions on essay structure, source evaluation, interpretation skills
  • Historical debates, discussion clubs, mock trials, or conferences
  • Peer tutoring and revision clinics ahead of exams and NEA deadlines

Progression & Careers

A‑Level History is highly respected by universities and employers. It prepares students for degrees in History, Law, Politics, Journalism, International Relations, and more. Graduates develop strong critical thinking, research, debate, writing, and evaluation skills—making them valuable in sectors such as education, media, law, business, public service, and heritage.

Curriculum Content

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