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History (sixth form)

Course content

The course allows you to develop your understanding of events often studied at GCSE and the historical skills you have honed during Year 10 and 11.

At A-Level you study:

  • Germany and West Germany 1918- 1989 (Examined Unit)
  • Spain, 1930-78: republicanism, Francoism and the re-establishment of democracy (Examined Unit)
  • Protest, Agitation and Reform in Britain 1780-1928 (Examined Unit)
  •  The development of the Cold War

What have students who have taken this course in the past progressed to?

Many of our students go on to study History, Politics, Law or International Relations at degree level. History also combines well with maths and science subjects to create an attractive portfolio of qualifications enabling students to move on to a range of university courses. It also provides an excellent foundation for a number of popular careers including journalism, law and business.

How will I learn?

History is predominantly a classroom-based subject. You learn about the past through reading, watching clips and documentaries and studying both primary and secondary sources. Students then learn to form and structure arguments within written essays to prepare thoroughly for exams at the end of the course.

How will I be assessed?

At the end of year 13 you will take three separate examinations which will account for 80% of the total A level course. The final 20% is a 3000 – 4000 word coursework essay. This is completed during the first two terms of year 13 and handed in at Easter.

How much time should I be expected to spend on assignments, projects, field trips etc.?

We expect you to spend at least 5 hours per week studying history outside the classroom and preparing for lessons.

Which awarding body is the course validation by?

Edexcel.

Expected prior knowledge

To study History at A level you must have genuine passion for the subject as well as an interest in the way that the world has developed over time. You should enjoy investigation, discovery and debating various issues. A desire to learn how to analyse evidence in order to make up your own mind is also crucial.

Important Upcoming Events

Sixth Form Open Evening for Year 12 Students – Starting September 2026:

We extend a warm welcome to all students and parents / carers.

We are incredibly excited to be welcoming you to visit our school, so you can get a real sense of the unique atmosphere and community we have here. We look forward to meeting you at the Sixth Form Open Evening and working alongside you to reach your future aspirations.

Tuesday, 7th October 2025 – From 5.00pm to 7.00pm

Year 7 Pastoral Welcome Evening:

We extend a warm welcome to all Year 7  students and parents / carers.

The evening provides a valuable opportunity to meet the Year 7 pastoral leaders and begin building strong relationships that support your child’s transition into secondary school. It’s also a chance to receive important pastoral information that will help you understand how your child will be supported throughout the year, both academically and pastorally.

Wednesday, 8th October 2025 – From 5.00pm to 6.00pm

Additional Year 7 Open Mornings Announced!

Due to high demand, we are pleased to offer two additional Open Mornings for prospective Year 7 students starting September 2026.

No booking required – we look forward to welcoming you!

Dates:

Thursday, 9th October 2025 – From 9.15 am to 10.00am

Thursday, 16th October 2025 – From 9.15am t0 10.00am