History
History is recognised by universities and employers as an academically rigorous subject with high standards and superb transferable skills. It is the perfect complement to subjects such as English and theology, demanding the same skills of research, critical thinking and articulation. Studying History encourages students to express their ideas clearly, critically analyse hypotheses and interpretations, and develop a wide range of skills valued in many careers.
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Year 12
Students study two major periods: Revolutionary Russia and the early Tudor monarchy, gaining insight into how political and social change occurs. In the Russia depth study, they examine the Bolshevik Revolution, the consolidation of power in the 1920s and the leadership struggle after Lenin’s death that resulted in Stalin’s rise.
Alongside this, students explore the establishment of the Tudor dynasty under Henry VII and the development of Henry VIII’s reign, including finance, foreign policy, religion and the role of his ministers. These studies help students understand how Tudor government and authority evolved.
Throughout the course, students develop key historical skills such as evaluating sources, analysing interpretations and assessing causes and consequences.
In Year 12, students also begin their Non‑Exam Assessment, an independent investigation into the development of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States from the 1860s to the 1960s, which continues into Year 13.
Year 13
Students continue their study of Revolutionary Russia and the Tudor period, focusing this cycle on the development of Stalinist policy and the mid‑Tudor monarchs. In the Russia unit, they examine Stalin’s economic strategies of the 1930s, including collectivisation and the Five Year Plans, alongside the extensive use of propaganda to support these policies. They also evaluate the impact of state terror, the regime’s rearmament programme and the foreign policy aims that shaped Stalinist Russia.
In the Tudor course, students explore the reigns of Edward VI and Mary I, considering whether a “mid‑Tudor crisis” occurred and how each monarch addressed the political and religious challenges of their time. They then progress to the early years of Elizabeth I’s reign, analysing the difficulties she faced at home and abroad as she sought to stabilise England.
Throughout this period, students refine key historical skills, including the analysis of sources, the evaluation of historians’ interpretations and the formation of well‑supported judgements. They also revise material from both examined units in preparation for the final A Level exams.
Alongside their taught content, students continue work on their Non‑Exam Assessment (NEA), an independent investigation into the Civil Rights Movement in the United States from the 1860s to the 1960s. This research project runs through Year 13, with submission taking place before Easter.
Assessment Components
Component 1
Component 2 & 3
Assessment consists of two written examination papers, each worth 40% of the A Level, and a historical investigation coursework unit worth 20%. Together, these assess students’ breadth and depth of historical knowledge, as well as their ability to research independently and evaluate interpretations.
Opportunities
History students go on to study a wide variety of subjects at university. Many progress to History degrees, but the subject is also highly recommended for degrees such as law, politics and English.
Employers value the research, analytical, teamwork and communication skills developed through History. A History degree can lead to careers such as archivist, museum curator, archaeologist, academic historian, media researcher and many other roles in the public, private and charity sectors.
Entrance Requirements
Essential Grade 5 in History.
History (A-Level)
History is recognised by universities and employers as an academically rigorous subject with high standards and excellent transferable skills. It complements subjects such as English and theology, requiring strong research, analytical and communication skills. Students learn to express their ideas clearly, evaluate evidence, analyse interpretations and understand change over time.
Component 1 – The Tudors: England, 1485–1603 (Breadth Study)
Students study change, continuity, cause and consequence across the Tudor period, covering the reigns of Henry VII, Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary I and Elizabeth I. Assessment is by a 2 hour 30 minute written exam worth 80 marks (40% of the A Level).
Component 2 – Revolution and Dictatorship: Russia and the Soviet Union, 1917–1953 (Depth Study)
Students study the coming and practice of communism in Russia and the Soviet Union, exploring concepts such as Marxism, communism, Leninism and Stalinism, ideological control and dictatorship. They consider political authority, the power of individuals and the relationship between governmental, economic and social change. Assessment is by a 2 hour 30 minute written exam worth 80 marks (40% of the A Level).
Component 3 – Historical Investigation (Non-Exam Assessment)
Students complete a 3,500-word independently researched coursework assignment on African American Civil Rights from 1865–1968. This allows them to develop and apply the skills, knowledge and understanding acquired through the examined components. The coursework is worth 40 marks (20% of the A Level).
Opportunities
History supports progression to degrees in History, law, politics, English and many other disciplines. Employers value the research, analytical, teamwork and communication skills developed through History, and graduates go on to careers such as archivist, museum curator, archaeologist, academic historian, media researcher and many other roles.
Entrance Requirements
Essential: Grade 5 in History.