Why study this course?

The A Level History course has been designed to help students understand the significance of historical events, the roles of individuals in history and the nature of change over time. Students will be examining over 200 years of both British and European history through a breadth and depth study. There has never been a better time to study history – the past is alive, dynamic, controversial and hugely relevant. History is constantly being written and rewritten, contested and reinterpreted. History is more than simply looking backwards and studying the past – it is also about critically engaging with the present and future. In today’s climate, it is more important than ever to learn from the mistakes of the past.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

YEAR 1:

Component 1: Breadth Study – The Tudors: England, 1485-1547. Part one: consolidation of the Tudor Dynasty: England, 1485-1547

Students will look at the reigns of Henry VII and Henry VIII. Themes will be their consolidation of power, their character and aims, the system of government, relationships with Scotland and other foreign powers, society, the economy and religion.

Component 2: Depth Study – Democracy and Nazism: Germany, 1918-1933. Part one: the Weimar Republic, 1918-1933

Students will look at how the Weimar Republic was established and the problems of the early years up to 1924. They will also cover the Golden Age looking at economic, political and social developments and finally the collapse of democracy between 1928 and 1933 which saw the rise of the Nazis.

YEAR 2:

Component 1: Breadth Study – The Tudors: England, 1485-1603. Part two: England: turmoil and triumph, 1547-1603

This course focuses on Henry VIII’s children – Edward VI, Mary Tudor and Elizabeth I.

Students will consider the problems of succession, relations with foreign powers, religious and social changes during their reigns.

Component 2: Depth Study – Democracy and Nazism: Germany, 1918-1945. Part two: Nazi Germany, 1933-1945

This course focuses on Hitler’s consolidation of power, the Terror State and economic and social policies.

Students will also look at the Racial State, anti-Semitism and the treatment of Jews. They will finish off looking at the impact of the Second World War.

Component 3: Historical Investigation – Personal study of approx. 100 years

Students also have to complete a non-examined assessment (coursework). This has to take the form of a question in the context of approximately 100 years. We currently offer a choice between the causes of conflict in Europe 1815-1914 and the witch trials of the Holy Roman Empire 1560-1660. Students will complete a 4500 word essay by the Christmas of Year 2.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

Two written exams at the end of Year 13 – Tudors and Germany – both 2 hours 30 minutes long.

The exams consist of three questions (one compulsory) from a choice of four.

Both exams are worth 80 marks which make up 80% of the A Level. 

The NEA is worth 40 marks which makes up 20% of A Level. This is marked by teachers and moderated by AQA.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

Students who have studied A Level History go on to study a variety of subjects at higher level, including History, Law, Business, Media and Politics. A History qualification is highly prized by education establishments and employers alike as it teaches data analysis, report writing, critical thinking and research skills.

ASSOCIATED COURSES/SKILLS

History is a very literacy-based subject, so English is a good course to do alongside History. The skills you learn in History are transferable across a range of different subjects.