A-Level

History

protests
History

Entry Criteria

English GCSE

Grade 5

History

Grade 6

Careers

Studying History provides many transferable skills such as researching, analysis of evidence and data, written and verbal communication and highly developed thinking skills. History complements the study of most subjects, demonstrating to employers you have a breadth of skills and attributes. Many skills are similar to those developed in sciences or subjects with a higher emphasis on the written word such as English. These skills are highly valued by employers and universities. Jobs related to studying History include: academic researcher, archivist, heritage manager, historic buildings inspector, museum education officer or curator, teacher, librarian, archaeologist, journalist, civil service administrator, editorial assistant, HR officer, marketing executive, politician, solicitor, historical advisor to film industry, novelist, etc. 

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If you require any further information about the curriculum we are following in this subject, please click here to contact the Head of Faculty/Department.

Course ID
Edexcel 9H10
Faculty
Humanities
Department
History
Level
A-Level
Head of Faculty
E. Richman
Head of Department
C. Johns
Availability
Currently Studied, Offered Next Academic Year (subject to enrolment numbers)
History

Course Overview

Our A-Level History course offers an exciting opportunity to explore the past, equipping you with skills that not only build on your GCSE knowledge but also prepare you for the demands of higher education and beyond. In our high-challenge, high-support environment, you will develop independence and confidence, with a curriculum crafted to push your boundaries while providing all the guidance you need to succeed.

We are dedicated to helping you become an effective, independent learner and a curious, critical thinker. Throughout the course, you’ll tackle fascinating historical periods and pivotal events, learn to ask significant questions, and engage in debates that bring history to life. You will master key historical skills, like critical analysis, academic writing, and building strong arguments; empowering you to think and write like a historian.

Our course is structured for success, beginning with accessible units in Year 12 and ample time to consolidate learning in Year 13. With regular exam practice and targeted support, we help you build the confidence to excel in assessments. By the time you finish, you won’t just have a love for history; you’ll have the analytical and communication skills that universities and employers value highly. Join us and turn your passion for history into a powerful asset for the future.

Course Content

Year 12

Term Unit of Work Assessment
Autumn 1 1F: In Search of the American Dream: The USA, c. 1917-1996
The Changing Political Environment 1917-80
2F: South Africa, 1948–94: from apartheid state to ‘rainbow nation’
Background
The response to apartheid, c1948–59
‘A’ Level exam style essay.
Autumn 2 1F: In Search of the American Dream: The USA, c. 1917-1996
The Quest for Civil Rights 1917-80
2F: South Africa, 1948–94: from apartheid state to ‘rainbow nation’
The response to apartheid, c1948–59
‘A’ Level exam style essay –
timed.
Spring 1 1F: In Search of the American Dream: The USA, c. 1917-1996
Society and culture in change 1917-80
2F: South Africa, 1948–94: from apartheid state to ‘rainbow nation’
Radicalisation of resistance and the consolidation of National Party power, 1960–68
‘A’ Level exam style essay.
Spring 2 1F: In Search of the American Dream: The USA, c. 1917-1996
The changing quality of life, 1917-80
2F: South Africa, 1948–94: from apartheid state to ‘rainbow nation’
Redefining resistance and challenges to National Party power, 1968-83
‘A’ Level exam style essay –
timed.
Summer 1 1F: In Search of the American Dream: The USA, c. 1917-1996
Review and revision
2F: South Africa, 1948–94: from apartheid state to ‘rainbow nation’
The end of apartheid and the creation of the ‘rainbow nation’, 1984–94
Essay planning and timed essay writing practice.
Summer 2 History Coursework
Students complete an independently researched enquiry on historical
interpretations (3000-4000 words)
2F: South Africa, 1948–94: from apartheid state to ‘rainbow nation’
The end of apartheid and the creation of the ‘rainbow nation’, 1984–94
Review and revision
Coursework proposal.
Resource Record Sheet.

 

Year 13

Term Unit of Work Assessment
Autumn 1 History Coursework
Students complete an independently researched enquiry on historical interpretations (3000-4000 words).
Protest, agitation and parliamentary reform in Britain, c1780-1928
Depth 1: Radical reformers, c1790-1819.
Depth 2 Chartism, c1838-c1850.
Ongoing support and feedback on research methodology and written task. Resource Record Sheet. Students complete one Part A and one Part B exam questions for each Depth Study including those set in the January mock and timed work in class.
Autumn 2 History Coursework
Students complete an independently researched enquiry on historical interpretations (3000-4000 words).
Protest, agitation and parliamentary reform in Britain, c1780-1928
Depth 3: Contagious Diseases Acts and the campaign for their repeal, 1862-86.
Depth 4: The Women’s Social and Political Union, 1903-14.
First draft of coursework. Resource Record Sheet. Students complete one Part A and one Part B exam questions for each Depth Study including those set in the January mock and times in class.
Spring 1 Historical Interpretations: What impact did the Reagan presidency have on the USA in the years 1981-96?
Protest, agitation and parliamentary reform in Britain, c1780-1928
Depth 5: Trades union militancy, 1917-27.
Breadth 1: Reform of parliament.
Final draft of coursework and Resource Record Sheet. Students complete one Part A and one Part B exam question from Depth Study 5.
Spring 2 Historical Interpretations: What impact did the Reagan presidency have on the USA in the years 1981-96?
Protest, agitation and parliamentary reform in Britain,
c1780-1928
Breadth 1: Reform of parliament.
Breadth 2: Changing influences in parliament: the impact of parliamentary reform.
Students complete one Part C essay for each Breadth Study.
Summer 1 Historical Interpretations: What impact did the Reagan presidency have on the USA in the years 1981-96?
Revision and examination preparation
Protest, agitation and parliamentary reform in Britain,
c1780-1928
Students finish off the final breadth study and then follow a planned revision programme.
 
Summer 2 ‘A’ Level Examination. ‘A’ Level Examination.

 

Extended Learning

Year 12

Websites Read Visit or Watch Extra
Edexcel History; BBC Bitesize History; National Archives; BBC History Programmes.     Two students have the opportunity to take part in the ‘Lessons from Auschwitz’ project. Students are invited to attend the Holocaust Speaker event.

 

Year 13

Websites Read Visit or Watch Extra
Edexcel History; BBC Bitesize History; National Archives; BBC History Programmes. Students are supplied with a reading list for Paper 3 and reading for their coursework unit will be determined by the question they choose. Students could visit the Imperial war Museum to support their coursework should they choose to study World War I or II. They may also wish to visit the Royal Airforce Museum in Barnet. Students could visit the British Museum and the British library is a wonderful place to visit and work particularly when completing the coursework component. Two students have the opportunity to take part in the ‘Lessons from Auschwitz’ project. Students are invited to attend the Holocaust Speaker event.