History
Curriculum Intent
We aim to develop all scholars into historians who have a passion for learning about the past, and understanding how this can help us make sense of our own identity and place in the world. Our curriculum sparks curiosity with history close to home and from around the world, whilst building analysis, investigation, communication and interpretation skills that are useful in becoming a historian and that have significance within other areas of education and life.
The history curriculum provides scholars with an opportunity to understand the complexity of people’s lives, the diversities of societies and relationships as well as their own identity.
Key Stage 3
Year 7
Scholars begin their study of History with an exploration of the Medieval World, not just in Britain but as far afield as the Islamic World in the East and the African civilisations to the South. Scholars will start with the Norman Conquest of 1066 and follow the Middle Ages through to Discovery of the New World and the building of empires, making comparisons to civilisations pre-1066. Alongside the narratives and timeline, scholars will practice essential history skills such as assessing levels of change and using source material to immerse themselves into the rich history of the world.
Year 8
Scholars continue to explore historical learning through the focus of the Early Modern and Modern Periods of history, continuing to look at history from local and global perspectives such as varying views of the British Empire and its legacy, continuing on through the rich culture and history of the Caribbean before moving their attention to the study, from a local and national perspective, of the World Wars, including the Holocaust.
Year 9
Scholars continue to develop their skills of critical thinking, weighing evidence and sifting arguments to develop perspective and judgment. Scholars develop an understanding of the political and religious ideologies of our modern world, to understand political spectrums and religion to assess their impact as a force for change but also how when misinterpreted can lead to global terrorism. Studies will also be undertaken focusing on the history and importance of the civil rights movement in 20th century America and the academic year will culminate with an in-depth study into the role of women through time and their critical role in history.
Useful Links
KS3 BBC Bitesize - History John Clare History Oak National Academy - KS3 History Oak National Academy - KS4 History
Key Stage 4
GCSE History (Exam Board: AQA)
Year 10
Paper 2 – Norman England c1066 – 1100
Scholars study the arrival of the Normans and the establishment of their rule, focusing on major aspects of Norman rule considered from economic, religious, political, social and cultural standpoints of this period and arising contemporary and historical controversies.
Paper 2 – Britain: Health and the people c1000 - today
This thematic study will enable scholars to gain an understanding of how medicine and public health developed in Britain over a long period of time. It considers the causes, scale, nature and consequences of short and long term developments, their impact on British society and how they were related to the key features and characteristics of the periods during which they took place. This study will focus on the development of medicine and public health in Britain, but will also draw on wider world developments that impacted on the core themes.
Year 11
Paper 1 – Germany 1890 – 1945
This period study focuses on the development of Germany during a turbulent half century of change. It was a period of democracy and dictatorship – the development and collapse of democracy and the rise and fall of Nazism. Scholars will study the political, economic, social and cultural aspects of these two developments and the role ideas and individuals played in influencing change.
Paper 1 – Conflict and Tension – the interwar years 1918 – 1939
This wider-world depth study enables scholars to understand the complex and diverse interests of different individuals and states including the Great Powers. It looks at concepts such as national self-determination, ideas of internationalism and the challenges of revising the peace settlement. This area of study considers the role of individuals and groups in effecting change and the influencing of international relations, they topics cover peace-making, the League of Nations and the origins and outbreak of the Second World War.
Useful Links
AQA History BBC Bitesize History