A-Level History

Course Summary

History is not a subject that is stuck in the past. Far from it; historical events have shaped society worldwide into what it is today. Moreover, as the quotation above suggests, how the past is interpreted has been just as important in shaping people’s minds and outlook. While events today can be influenced by what happened in the distant as well as the recent past, the course reflects this by covering periods of history from the fifteenth to the twentieth centuries. If you are an independent thinker who wants to learn more about how the past impacts upon the present, then A-Level History could be for you.

Course Introduction

Course Outline

Exam Board: AQA

Component 1 (Breadth Study) – The Tudors: England 1485-1603

(40% of A-level: 2 hour 30 minute examination)

We will study the consolidation of the Tudor dynasty in England from 1485 to 1603. This is a breadth study which will focus on the reign of Henry VII through to the end of Henry VIII’s reign. There will be a focus on how the monarchy was restored and the revolution in church and state. There will be further study on the religious and political instability up to 1603 and the associated decline of the Tudors. Students will study Edward VI, Mary I and the reign of Elizabeth I, investigating key changes under each monarch.

Component 2 (Depth Study) – The Cold War :1945-1991

(40% of A-level: 2hour 30 minute examination)

We will cover the origins of the Cold War and how the Grand Alliance collapsed after World War II. We then look at the development of the Cold War with key flash points such as the Berlin Blockade, Korean War and Cuban Missile Crisis with a focus on the Kennedy and Khrushchev era. Moving on to the impact of the Vietnam conflict on the Cold War and also the reality of Détente that saw attempts from the superpowers to normalise their relations and the flashpoints that prevented them from doing so. We focus heavily upon the decline of the Soviet Union and the actions of individuals such as Reagan and Gorbachev.

Component 3 – Essay

(20% of A-level: 3000-3500 word essay)

The coursework element of the course encourages students to develop their independent research skills. This aspect of A-level History is highly regarded by HE institutions as great way to prepare for degree level work.

Subject Entry Requirements

In addition to the general Sixth Form Entry requirements students will need the following:
GCSE English Literature or Language: Grade 5 or above
GCSE Mathematics: Grade 4 or above
GCSE History: Grade 5 or above

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