History

Why study History?

Enjoyment – History is a fascinating subject which allows us to explore and discover both the development and consequences of major historical events and movements. The box-office success of recent historically-themed Hollywood movies, such as Troy, Alexander and Pearl Harbour, is evidence of history’s continuing, enduring appeal.

Understanding – The study of history provides the information we need for understanding current world affairs. In order to truly understand contemporary politics, culture, society and economics we need to understand how and why these have developed over the years. Studying history allows us to do just that.

Compatibility – Studying history leads to the development of useful transferable skills (e.g. the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, the ability to analyse and evaluate information and the ability to make substantiated judgments based on a range of evidence) that can be applied to other disciplines. As a result, history combines well with a variety of other subjects at AS or GCE Advanced Level.

Career Opportunities – The skills acquired from studying history are highly valued by employers, universities and colleges. History can therefore provide a foundation for a career in a wide range of professions such as journalism, law, the media and business.

What kind of student is this course suitable for?

This course will appeal to students who:

• Have an interest in the way that the world has developed through the ages
• Enjoy investigation and discovery
• Enjoy debate and putting forward a well argued case
• Want to improve their analytical skills
• Want to (or need to) include a humanities subject amongst their AS/A2 Levels
• Want to keep their options open – history offers a route to a range of higher education or career choices

It is not a requirement that you have studied History at GCSE in order to take an AS or GCE Advanced History course.

What course will I follow?

We are following the Edexcel History specification. Like other A levels, you will follow AS level in year 1 and, should you wish to continue your study of history, Advanced GCE level from the end of June in your first year and through to year 2.