History Department

History is concerned with the study and appreciation of the past. It contributes to pupils' understanding of the world and its interdependence, achievements and aspirations.

The Department aims to give pupils an appreciation of the events and people that have shaped the past and in turn, the world they live in. It works to assist the development of lively, enquiring minds that question and construct rational argument. In addition, the Department seeks to develop the history skills of pupils, such as extended writing and source work and to make access across the key stages a smooth transition. There are many cross curricular links to subjects such as English, Citizenship and RE.

What do Students Study in History

History is a compulsory subject for all pupils in Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9) and an option at Key Stage 4. (Years 10-11) Pupils are taught in mixed ability groups at both key stages. At Key Stage 3 pupils have two 45 minute lessons each week increasing to three 45 minute lessons each week at Key Stage 4. Key Stage 3 pupils have one homework task a week whilst Key Stage 4 pupils have two tasks.

In all years the Department uses a variety of skills, including source work, role plays, debates, and visual, written and oral presentations. A variety of textbooks and other resources - including pictures, video, music, and interactive whiteboard activities are used to enable students to develop their historical skills and appreciation of the subject.

At Key Stage 3 the following courses are covered:

Year 7 - What is History? Medieval Realms 1066-1500, the Development of Castles

Year 8 - The Making of the United Kingdom, the French Revolution.

Year 9 - Black Peoples of the Americas, Expansion, Trade and Industry Britain: 1750 - 1900, the Twentieth Century World

At Key Stage 4 (GCSE) the following units are covered:

Year 10 - Germany 1918-1939, A Divided Union? The USA 1945 - 1970

Year 11 - Crime, Policing and Punishment in England c.1880-1990: The Case of Jack the Ripper, Peace and War: International Relations 1900-1990

From September 2009 the new modular GCSE was introduced and follows the Edexcel Modern World History course.

GCSE History includes a controlled assessment which counts for 25% of the final mark and consists of one written piece which is broken down into two questions. The work is a combination of class based lessons and independent research carried out at home. It is completed at the start of Year 11.

History is a popular option choice for GCSE. It is taught in option block groupings and the course builds upon the skills students have developed during Key Stage 3 focusing on the use and evaluation of sources, processing content and using enquiry skills to research key events.

A Level History

The Department offers GCE A level History. Students follow the Edexcel course on Early Modern and Modern History which enables them to study some of the formative developments in British, European and American history, and assess how states and societies were transformed. It develops students’ skills of analysis, the ability to deal with conflicting data as well as the ability to communicate ideas clearly.

The Department incorporates a range of methods into teaching and learning including group work, presentations, film, lectures, the use of IT, as well as individual reading, research and writing. In addition to lessons students will be expected to complete about six hours of independent study a week.

School Trips

Trips to Hampton Court Palace and the National Archives in Kew have been organised in the past and a trip to the National Archives will take place on Tuesday 29 November 2011 for Year 11.

Teaching Staff

The Department is made up of two experienced teachers; one part time teacher and one who is also a member of the Senior Management Team.

History is taught in a specialist classroom and wide use is made of a range of teaching techniques so that all students can access the curriculum in its diversity and enjoy their learning.

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