Greenhead College SF Greenhead College Sixth Form
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History

Why Study This Subject?

If you are enthusiastic about studying the past and reflecting on key historical issues and controversies, then choose History at Greenhead College. We are a vibrant department, eager to engage you in the study of Medieval, Early Modern and Modern History.

If you are fascinated by the world around you and wish to gain a deeper understanding of social, political and economic change across these periods, then choose this subject as one of your A Levels. History provides the contextual knowledge needed to make sense of today’s world.

History is a challenging and rigorous A Level that is highly respected by employers and universities alike and complements most other A Level subjects. Our students achieve excellent results, with many choosing to study History further at degree level, including at Oxbridge. Former students have gone on to pursue careers in law, publishing, journalism, accountancy, the Navy, medicine, drama, the Civil Service, construction, archaeology and education, including History teaching.

History is a broad subject that allows you to develop your analysis of historical sources and essay-writing skills with greater depth and precision. You will read more widely, expanding your vocabulary and strengthening your ability to form coherent, well-reasoned arguments. Class discussions and debates are integral to our lessons, as we are interested in your thoughts and ideas about historical controversies. Teaching includes group work, independent study, role play, quizzes, timed essays, videos, source analysis, podcasts, presentations, and opportunities to attend conferences and visit historical sites.

The department also offers enrichment opportunities covering topics as diverse as Ancient Greece and Rome, the Vikings, archaeology, the Tudors and the English Civil War, as well as the chance to visit Auschwitz as part of the Holocaust Educational Trust programme. We are keen to broaden your historical horizons, making the subject both interesting and relevant to your lives.

Topics You Will Cover

The course follows the AQA specification.

Medieval History

Unit 1: The Age of the Crusades (c.1071–1204). This unit is a fascinating study into the reasons for the development of the Crusading movement. Topic highlights include the capture and loss of the city of Jerusalem and the Third Crusade of Richard I, the Lionheart.

Unit 2: Angevin Kings (1154–1216). We will focus on the concepts of medieval kingship, royal authority, and relations between the Crown and the Church. Topic highlights include the Great Rebellion, Thomas Becket, and Magna Carta.

Unit 3: In the second year you will complete coursework on the European Witch Craze.

Modern History

Unit 1: The British Empire (1857–1967). This unit focuses on the development and decline of the British Empire over a 100-year period. Topic highlights include the Indian Rebellion, the Boer War, the Partition of India, and the Suez Crisis.

Unit 2: Revolution and Dictatorship in Russia (1917–1953). This unit explores concepts such as Marxism, Communism, Leninism, Stalinism, ideological control and dictatorship. Topic highlights include the collapse of Tsarist Russia, the creation of the USSR, and Russia’s role in the ‘Great Patriotic War’ (Second World War).

Unit 3: In the second year you will complete coursework on the European Witch Craze.

Entry Guidelines

Grade 5 in GCSE English Language. Please note that Medieval History cannot be studied alongside Modern History, and vice versa.

Skills You Will Develop

History