History

Aims

The past is worth studying for its own sake. We can have no true sense of our own identity without an awareness of where we came from. However, those who study History A Level also learn to develop valuable, transferable intellectual skills. Entry requirement Ideally, those wanting to study History A Level should have attained at least a grade 6 in GCSE History. However, exceptions may be made at the discretion of the Head of Department. Above all, students should have a love of the past, the ability to express themselves well in writing and the capability to think critically. Course Structure

We follow the linear AQA A Level History specification. The course is comprised of two units, one depth and one breadth, that will be examined and one piece of coursework on Tudor Rebellions. The coursework will comprise 20% of the overall grade. Both of the examined units will be taken at the end of the second year of study. The units combine political, social and cultural history enabling students to take an overview of critical developments and foster a strong sense of historical change and continuity over time.

Sixth Form

Tsarist and Communist Russia 1855—1963 – 40% 2 hours 30 minutes written examination

The Making of Modern Britain 1953-2007 – 40% 2 hours 30 minutes written examination

Coursework – 20% 3500 word essay on an aspect of the Tudors.

Career opportunities Studying History builds a number of vital intellectual and personal qualities. Historians can write and argue effectively, assimilate and organise information and think critically. History is therefore an excellent subject to study at university level. It also combines well with such subjects as Politics, Psychology, Geography, Economics, English, Art and Music. Individuals with History degrees work in a number of different career areas, including the media, education, business and legal sectors.