A Level History

Applications Open - 1st November 2026

Applications Close - 12th February 2027

Entry Requirements - Please refer to the Sixth Form Course Directory via the website www.knoleacademy.org

Option blocks and detailed subject information can be found in our course directory on our website www.knoleacademy.org

How to Apply - Via Kent Choices https://www.kentprospectus.co.uk/login

Level 3 Courses - select a minimum of 3 courses to study

Level 2 Courses - select 1 course only as each course is studied on a full time basis.

A Level History offers students the opportunity to explore significant political, social and cultural developments that have shaped the modern world. Through the study of twentieth-century America, Apartheid-era South Africa and Tudor England, students will develop a deep understanding of change, continuity, conflict and power across different historical periods.

The course encourages students to think critically, evaluate evidence and consider different interpretations of the past. Alongside examined units, students will complete an independent historical investigation, allowing them to research an area of personal interest in greater depth.

Paper 1: In search of the American Dream: the USA, 1917-1996.

This option comprises a study in breadth, in which students will learn about the dramatic political, economic and social transformation of the USA in the twentieth century, an era that saw the USA challenged by the consequences of political, economic and social inequalities at home and of its involvement in international conflict. The focus of study is on developments and changes over a broad timescale. This option also contains a study in depth of historical interpretations on a broad question, which is contextualised by, and runs on from, the themes: what impact the Reagan presidency had on the USA in the years 1981–96.

Paper 2: South Africa 1948-94: from apartheid state to ‘rainbow nation’.

This option comprises a study in depth of South Africa during its transition from white minority rule to the free elections of 1994, a long, and at times, dramatic process in which South Africa changed from an apartheid state into a multi-racial democracy. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the creation and consolidation of the apartheid regime by the National Party and the response and methods used by their political opponents in the struggle to overthrow apartheid, as well social, economic and cultural changes that accompanied this process.

Paper 3: Rebellion and Disorder under the Tudors, 1485-1603

Together, the breadth and depth topics explore the nature of rebellion and disorder under the Tudors and the way the various challenges were met, the nature of change in government over the period and the changing relationship between the Crown and key sections of society. The option enables students to explore the way in which, despite a shaky start, the Tudors were able to establish their dynasty as one of the most powerful England has seen

Students complete three externally examined papers at the end of Year 13. There will also be a coursework component that is internally assessed worth 20% of the A-Level.

Paper 1 2hr15- 60 marks 30% of the A-Level

Paper 2 1hr30- 40 marks 20% of the A-Level

Paper 3 2hr15- 60 marks 30% of the A-Level

NEA (Coursework) Internally Assessed- 40 marks 20% of the A-Level

Minimum of 5 9-5 grades in GCSE examinations including English and Maths. Students are expected to have a grade 6 in English or History.

• History

• Sociology

• Criminology

• Law

• Education

• Journalism & Media

• International Relations

• Civil Service

• Politics

• Human Resources

• Marketing

• Public Relations