An Introduction To The History Department

Departmental Aims
The department aspires to enliven pupils' interests by connecting their studies with their own life experiences. The location of the department in a nationally significant historic building provides an excellent platform for achieving this aim. Teaching methodologies are very varied – site visits, role play, group discussion, visiting speakers, conference attendance and pupil presentation are all employed, as well as extensive use of ICT. The History Department is extremely successful – consistently good uptake at GCSE and A level is underpinned by excellent exam results.

People Power
The Key Stage 3 curriculum (Years 7 to 9) charts the development of from the arrival of the Normans in 1066 through to the middle of the twentieth century. The theme running across this vast time period is the gradual democratization of life. Norman feudal medieval society was dominated by monarchs, nobles and clerics and ordinary people had little influence on the great decisions of the time. The curriculum evaluates how this situation changed over time to one where ordinary individuals, whatever their birth or background, gained a greater say in the running of the country.

International Disaster and Social Development
GCSE focuses on the history of the twentieth century. The aftermath of World War One, and the failed attempt to set up a peaceful new world order, ultimately ending in the tragedy of Nazism and World War Two are the focus for the first year of the course. The second year takes a look at social and economic history at the start of the twentieth century. Coursework is on the Russian Revolution and the Sharpeville Massacre in 1960.

Studies in Depth
A level offers a diversity of topics. Queen Elizabeth I and the English Civil War offer fascinating parallels in successful and unsuccessful leadership. American History is introduced and units on the causes and aftermath of the American Civil War offer a fascinating comparison with European history. The remaining topics allow the student to pursue the theme of civil rights in the up to 1980. At the end of A2 students have a chance to research and write a dissertation on a topic of their own choice.