History plays a fundamental role in providing individuals with an appreciation of culture, the past and an understanding of how this can shape the present. The study of A Level History is a brilliant opportunity to learn about some of the most fascinating periods while also developing essential and highly-valued transferable skills.

Course content:

Year 12

Students study ‘The Early Tudors and Mid-Tudor Crisis: 1485-1558’ which looks at significant political, religious and social changes that occurred under the reigns of the Tudor monarchs. Students also study ‘The French Revolution and the rule of Napoleon: 1774-1815’ which focuses on one of the most dramatic events in modern history and the emergence of one of its most notorious figures.

Year 13

Students study ‘Russia and its Ruler: 1855-1964’, which delves into the dramatic switch between Tsardom (autocratic monarchy) to Communism, and the impact this has on Russia and its surrounding territories. Coursework is also completed, and this can be based on any topic students have an interest in, as long as there is sufficient historiography and debate around it.

Assessment criteria:

Unit 1 – The Early Tudors and Mid-Tudor Crisis: 1485-1558 – Examination of 1 hour 30 minutes (25%)

Unit 2 – The French Revolution and the rule of Napoleon: 1774-1815 – Examination of 1 hour (15%)

Unit 3 – Russia and its Rulers: 1855-1964 – Examination of 2 hours 30 minutes (40%)

Unit 4 – Coursework (20%)