HISTORY

What is the course about?
The study of history offers students both an in-depth and wider appreciation of the human condition in society. The AS and A2 courses follow an essentially modern focus. To read history you should be the kind of person who thinks about the key issues of the world and wonder why events take place. You will study:

• Key individuals in British and World History
• Depth studies of Italian, Russian, German and British society and politics.

What skills and experiences would be useful or essential?
The department recommend that a grade C at GCSE would be the minimum requirement however history is not essential as we will look at all your grades. History is very time consuming in terms of private study and research. Therefore you should have a good memory, enjoy reading and have a good grasp of English language skills. History can be taken with a variety of subjects and usually complements those disciplines that require a high level of analytical thought (e.g. English, Economics, and Mathematics)

How will I learn and be assessed?
Formal assessment for this course takes the shape of:

1. 2 x 45 min exams (one in January and the other June of year 12)
2. 1 x 1 hour exam (source based) in the June of year 12

Throughout the year you will be asked to write essays on a variety of topics relating to the course. There will also be subject knowledge tests. Learning will be directed towards private study. Teacher led lessons will provide you with the framework for your exam but the onus is on the student to research the material required to achieve the top grade.

What opportunities are available to me?
History is fortunate to run trips abroad relating to the AS and A2 course. Details of these trips will be available in the autumn term. History graduates can undertake a variety of careers including law, finance, teaching of all age groups and work in the Civil Service and the Armed Forces.