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A Level

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Course Overview

A Level History is the study of significant people and events from the past, focusing on key debates and supporting arguments with valid evidence. It helps students develop essential skills such as analysis, evaluation, and the ability to scrutinise historical evidence and interpretations.

 

Through this, students learn to communicate clearly, logically, and concisely – skills highly valued by both universities and employers. History complements other humanities subjects, modern foreign languages, social sciences, and even works well as a standalone subject alongside sciences. History is taught by a dedicated team of enthusiastic subject experts who are passionate about the subject and committed to supporting their students.

ASSESSMENT

  • Coursework: 20%
  • Exam: 80%
  • Awarding Body: Pearson Edexcel

Course Topics

  • In Search of the American Dream: the USA, c. 1917-96
  • The Road to Independence: India, c. 1914-48
  • The British Experience of Warfare: c. 1790-1918
  • The Origins of the First World War (Coursework)

BEGIN - IS THIS COURSE RIGHT FOR ME?

If you’re fascinated by the past, curious about the world around you, and eager to understand what drives people to act as they do, then History could be the perfect subject for you! You should enjoy reading, researching, and exploring different perspectives, as History is both challenging and rewarding. Successful students are motivated, resilient, and hardworking, ready to take part in discussions and share ideas with their peers. If you’re prepared to dig deeper, think critically, and engage in lively debate, you’ll thrive on this course.  

BELONG – WHY STUDY THIS WITH US?

History is one of the most popular subjects at our college, taught by passionate subject specialists who bring the past to life. Our curriculum spans from the late 18th to the late 20th century, covering a wide range of global events and themes.

 

Lessons are varied, interactive, and discussion-led, giving you plenty of opportunities to test out ideas and debate different viewpoints. You’ll also benefit from our team’s expertise – with staff who have examiner experience for Pearson Edexcel – and from enrichment activities that take learning beyond the classroom. Highlights include our annual trip to the First World War battlefields, study days at local and regional universities, and visits to iconic sites such as the Imperial War Museum and Parliament. We also welcome guest academics to deliver talks on topics like the Peninsular War and Gandhi’s role in India’s independence. 

 

Our History department is committed to helping you prepare for your future. Whether you’re aiming for university, applying to Oxford or Cambridge, or considering degree apprenticeships, you’ll receive tailored support. From UCAS guidance and Aspire+ sessions to interview practice and bespoke tutorials, we’ll help you achieve your next steps with confidence. 

BEYOND – WHERE CAN THIS COURSE TAKE ME?

Studying History opens up a world of opportunities. Many of our student’s progress to university, continuing with History or branching into related subjects such as Philosophy, Classics, Languages, Politics, International Relations, or Psychology. The analytical, research, and communication skills gained through History also provide a strong foundation for studying Law. 

 

Increasingly, we support students applying for degree apprenticeships, with recent alumni securing roles in the Civil Service, Law firms, and national businesses. History graduates go on to diverse careers in journalism, broadcasting, research, politics, human resources, advertising, marketing, teaching, archiving, and museum work – the possibilities are endless! With History, you’ll gain knowledge and skills that open doors across a wide range of exciting futures.  

If you are unsure what course you think you should choose or what career you would like to aspire towards then contact Admissions:

01782 854221
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