If you decide to continue with your studies in History the syllabus offered at A Level provides a challenging course. It focusses upon aspects of American, British, and World History during the 18th, 19th & 20th centuries and the dramatic changes that have taken place. As you will not have studied any of these topics for KS3 and GCSE History they offer you new perspectives with regard to the subject. Through these units you will have the opportunity to examine a wide range of political, economic, social and cultural developments which have taken place and which have had a major impact on the world in which we live today. Modules 1 to 3 are assessed at the end of Year 13 by means of external examination.

Module 1 is studied by students during Year 12 alongside Module 3. Module 2 is studied in Year 12 alongside Module 4. The final module is the coursework component with this being completed at the end of Year 12 and the beginning of Year 13 and is marked within the school and externally moderated. For this module students will choose to research a historical debate from a list of controversies with regard to the topic which forms the basis of the coursework module. This will be written in the form of an extended essay of between 3,000 and 4,000 words in length.

• Introduction to the USA in the 20th Century

• Political Developments 1917 to 1980

• The Civil Rights Movement 1917 to 1980

• Society and Culture 1917 to 1980

• Changes in Living Standards 1917 to 1980

• The Impact of Reagan 1981 to 1996

• The Introduction of the Apartheid System

• The Response to Apartheid 1948 to 1959

• Radicalisation of Resistance to Apartheid

• The National Party in Power 1960 to 1968

• Challenges to the National Party 1968 to 1983

• The End of the Apartheid System 1984 to 1994

• The Changing Nature and Extent of Trade

• The Changing Nature of the Royal Navy

• The Loss of the American Colonies 1770 to 1783

• The Birth of British Australia 1788 to 1829

• Canada and the Durham Report 1837 to 1840

• Britain and India 1829 to 1858

• The Nile Valley 1882 to 1898

• Debates on the Causes of the Russian Revolutions of 1917

• Debates on the Rise to Power of Stalin in the USSR 1924 to 1929

• Debates on the Impact of Stalin’s Domestic Policies 1929 to 1939

A good grade at GCSE is essential (minimum Grade 6) and enthusiasm and commitment are key requirements. Students must be organised and be able to work independently. It is expected that you will contribute to class discussion and prepare presentations. History combines well with many subjects, including English, Modern Languages, Economics & Geography. The skills developed in studying History at A Level are vital in a range of various occupations. The ability to think clearly, analyse information and argue in a coherent manner is not just essential for those working in law and journalism but in other fields like business and management. Good communication skills are vital in all careers.