History

Examining Body: AQA

Entry Criteria: Grade 5 in GCSE English and/or History

The AQA History A Level course considers important events that shaped England and the wider world. Students study the establishment and rule of the Tudors from 1485 – 1603, investigating why Henry Tudor, a Welshman, who was raised in Brittany was able to invade England and usurp power. What was different about his rule? What opposition did he face? How was he able to pass his crown to his son, Henry VIII, without resistance? At the heart of this is a study into the impact on different groups within society – politically, economically, socially and religiously. 

Additionally, the unit on International Relations (1890 – 1941) will look at modern history, acquiring an understanding as to why something as catastrophic as the First World War occurred, and why the peacemakers of 1919 were unable to prevent a second world war, one that was to prove far more devastating than the last. In Year 13, there will be an opportunity to formulate a personal study whereby a question is devised and research is carried out in order to answer it – students will very much do the job of the historian in finding, analyzing and evaluating evidence in order to reach a justified conclusion. History students will benefit from a variety of proven, effective teaching methods during their course. However, students will also work independently – reading around the subject and taking an interest in current affairs to improve their skills at second order concepts such as change and continuity, cause and consequence, interpretation and significance. There will be many opportunities to take part in group discussions, give presentations as well as develop skills at written communication.  

Because History encourages analytical skills, logical thought and clear expression, it complements most other subjects, and prepares students for work and study beyond their school experience. Many students go on to study History or History- related courses at university (including Oxbridge) and this can lead to a wide variety of careers that might not be immediately obvious, such as law, media, financial services, journalism, politics, design or teaching – all of these sectors of employment, and more, look favorably on students who possess an A Level in History.