History
History is recognised by universities and employers as an academically rigorous subject with high standards and superb transferable skills. It is the perfect complement to subjects such as English and theology, demanding the same skills of research, critical thinking and articulation. Studying History encourages students to express their ideas clearly, critically analyse hypotheses and interpretations, and develop a wide range of skills valued in many careers.
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Year 12
In Year 12 students begin the AQA A Level History course with Component 1: The Tudors, England 1485–1603 (Breadth Study). They study issues of change, continuity, cause and consequence across the Tudor period, covering the reigns of Henry VII, Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary I and Elizabeth I.
This breadth paper develops understanding of political, religious, economic and social change over more than a century, while building key skills in analytical writing, source evaluation and the handling of different historical interpretations. Component 1 is assessed by a 2 hour 30 minute written exam worth 80 marks (40% of the A Level).
Year 13
In Year 13 students complete Component 2: Revolution and Dictatorship, Russia and the Soviet Union 1917–1953 (Depth Study). They study the coming and practice of communism in Russia and the Soviet Union, exploring concepts such as Marxism, communism, Leninism and Stalinism, as well as ideological control and dictatorship.
This depth paper enables students to consider issues of political authority, the power of individuals and the inter-relationship of governmental, economic and social change. Component 2 is assessed by a 2 hour 30 minute written exam worth 80 marks (40% of the A Level). Alongside this, students complete Component 3, a historical investigation on African American Civil Rights from 1865–1968: a 3,500-word independently researched coursework assignment worth 40 marks (20% of the A Level).
Assessment Components
Component 1
Component 2 & 3
Assessment consists of two written examination papers, each worth 40% of the A Level, and a historical investigation coursework unit worth 20%. Together, these assess students’ breadth and depth of historical knowledge, as well as their ability to research independently and evaluate interpretations.
Opportunities
History students go on to study a wide variety of subjects at university. Many progress to History degrees, but the subject is also highly recommended for degrees such as law, politics and English.
Employers value the research, analytical, teamwork and communication skills developed through History. A History degree can lead to careers such as archivist, museum curator, archaeologist, academic historian, media researcher and many other roles in the public, private and charity sectors.
Entrance Requirements
Essential Grade 5 in History.
History (A-Level)
History is recognised by universities and employers as an academically rigorous subject with high standards and excellent transferable skills. It complements subjects such as English and theology, requiring strong research, analytical and communication skills. Students learn to express their ideas clearly, evaluate evidence, analyse interpretations and understand change over time.
Component 1 – The Tudors: England, 1485–1603 (Breadth Study)
Students study change, continuity, cause and consequence across the Tudor period, covering the reigns of Henry VII, Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary I and Elizabeth I. Assessment is by a 2 hour 30 minute written exam worth 80 marks (40% of the A Level).
Component 2 – Revolution and Dictatorship: Russia and the Soviet Union, 1917–1953 (Depth Study)
Students study the coming and practice of communism in Russia and the Soviet Union, exploring concepts such as Marxism, communism, Leninism and Stalinism, ideological control and dictatorship. They consider political authority, the power of individuals and the relationship between governmental, economic and social change. Assessment is by a 2 hour 30 minute written exam worth 80 marks (40% of the A Level).
Component 3 – Historical Investigation (Non-Exam Assessment)
Students complete a 3,500-word independently researched coursework assignment on African American Civil Rights from 1865–1968. This allows them to develop and apply the skills, knowledge and understanding acquired through the examined components. The coursework is worth 40 marks (20% of the A Level).
Opportunities
History supports progression to degrees in History, law, politics, English and many other disciplines. Employers value the research, analytical, teamwork and communication skills developed through History, and graduates go on to careers such as archivist, museum curator, archaeologist, academic historian, media researcher and many other roles.
Entrance Requirements
Essential: Grade 5 in History.