History
Studying History helps students to understand the past as well equipping them with skills to make sense of the present.
We are a very passionate department with a range of interests in different periods of History.
We try to teach in a range of techniques which test students in different ways and encourage learners of all abilities and learning styles.
At Key Stage 3, students start by studying the Battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest of Britain before moving on to look at Medieval Life. This looks at the role or people power and the church by examining the role of religion, kings and rebellions. We also study the Tudors making a comparison between the reigns of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I before moving on to study the English Civil War. Finally we look at the Immigration to Britain from the Romans right up to the present day. Year 8 look at the rise and fall of the British Empire, before studying the Aztecs in South America. We then look at the Slave Trade to the Civil Rights Movement before spending some time looking at Crime and Punishment over the last 1500 years. In year 9 we study the first and second World Wars as well as the rise of Hitler in Nazi Germany.
At Key Stage 4, we follow the AQA History Specification. Here we study the Norman invasion in some depth before looking at Migration, Empire and the People. We also study the Cold War - Conflict between East and West: 1945-72 and America from the 1920s to the 1970s. This Course is 2 Papers and 100% Examination.
At Key Stage 5, A-Level Edexcel History combines studies of Modern Britain and America in Year 12 with an in depth study of the British Empire at year 13. This is a highly respected course which is well regarded by both universities and employers alike. The course has 3 exam papers sat at the end of year 13 as well as 25% Coursework also completed in Year 13. In addition we offer AQA Government and Politics at A Level. This course covers both British and American politics as well comparative ideologies. This consists of 3 Papers all sat in year 13.
How can you support your child?
- Encourage your child explain why they have the ideas and opinions they have.
- Visit historic sites and museums.
- Watch history documentaries and try to read History books and Historical Fiction.
Studying Philosophy and Ethics helps students to broaden their thinking and outlook to life by learning about and embracing other cultures and ways of thinking.
The department consists of highly knowledgeable teachers who are passionate about their subject. Teaching is discursive and accessible to a range of learning styles, as well as supportive of students ability to form opinions for themselves.
Our aim is to promote a real enthusiasm for the study of Philosophy and Ethics by exposing students to a range of religious and non-religious ways of thinking as well as to develop critical thinking skills and tolerance.
Creativity is at the heart of the curriculum and students will learn to engage in a wide range of topics which foster independence as they progress through the school.
At Key Stage 3, students study a range of topics including Respect, The law and wisdom, Equality, Justice, Feminism, Existentialism, Environmentalism Pacifism and terrorism as well as undertaking some independent reading and research. Discussion, debate and student presentations will form a regular part of lessons.
At Key Stage 4, we follow the AQA Philosophy and Ethics specification. Students will have an option to choose to study Philosophy and Ethics at GCSE level. Students will study a range of topical and thought provoking topics such as Beliefs and teachings, Relationships and families, Religion, peace and conflict, Human rights and social justice and Crime and punishment. The course is 100% examination.
At Key Stage 5, A-Level we follow the AQA specification. The topics are stimulating and demanding and the course is highly valued by universities and involve engaging with challenging philosophies, texts and ideas. The course is 100% examination. We aim to enable students to develop incisive thinking skills, sophisticated critical acumen as well as the ability to make independent judgements.