History

Each set in the Sixth Form studies a chronological and geographical spread of subject matter.

Pupils from 2021 onwards will study, firstly, a paper on the British Empire from 1857-1967 and, secondly, another on modern American history. These topics have been chosen to allow pupils to get their teeth into some absorbing political issues, to meet some fascinating historical characters, and to develop the capacity for analysis across topics and timeframes. In addition to this, the American topics fit in well with the US section of the Politics A Level “and the British Empire topic has never been more relevant to the present day, given the current Black Lives Matter protests and the debate over the Empire that this has created.” Pupils also complete a 4,500 word coursework piece. The intention is to have it done by the end of the Autumn term of the Upper Sixth to prevent it from distracting students in the lead up to the final examinations. Outside of the syllabus, the Department offers regular and structured preparation for the EPQ and Oxbridge entry. There is also a popular, pupil-directed Senior Historical Society add “, now known as the Coundley Historical Society,” which meets every fortnight to hear presentations given both by members of the Sixth Form and external speakers there is also a very popular series of evening lectures on a range of topics, offered by leading university academics. To broaden pupil experience of different topic areas, we run a Sixth Form reading group for the most able A Level historians that meets every term to discuss a book on an issue not covered in the normal A Level themes. In addition, the department runs regular trips to places such as Canterbury, Hampton Court, and the Tower of London.

Candidates take three units for the linear A Level

Unit 1 An examined ‘breadth study’ from British history. This will involve the study of the British Empire from 1857-1967, allowing students to investigate issues such as the development of the British Empire throughout the world and the process of decolonisation in the 1940s, 50s and 60s. Pupils will be required to demonstrate understanding of the period as a whole. Unit 2 A ‘depth study’ requiring pupils to study a period of approximately 50 years in depth. This unit allows pupils to immerse themselves fully in the history of a particular country or issue in a manner that is very satisfying academically. Pupils will study aspects of modern American history here.

Unit 3 An in-depth coursework study. Candidates will produce an independently researched 4,000- 5,000 word essay. This will be completed by Christmas in the Upper Sixth and will be internally assessed.