History

Applications Open: - Now

Applications Close: - Friday 13th February 2026 (This is the official deadline, when planning for the new timetable will begin; however, applications may still be accepted after this date.)

Entry Requirements: - 6 GCSE passes at Grade 5+, including a minimum of Grade 5 in Mathematics and English.

How to Apply: - Apply via KentChoices

Why study this subject?

A contrasting course that explores how both Britain and the USA emerged into modern states, as well as turbulent periods in the history of Ireland or Russia, and Germany. The course supports a range of learning styles and encourages the independent learner.

History at A Level is a widely recognised qualification that provides access to a wide range of courses and careers. The focus on critical thinking and careful use of evidence is training in both, the arts of writing and reading. Many students go on to study history or one of the other humanities at degree level, but other students take it as a contrast to their other A Levels. Possible career paths include law, police, journalism, politics, business, marketing, economics, civil service, and teaching.

Unit 1: British Period Study and Enquiry: The Early Stuarts and the Origins of the Civil War 1603-1660

Enquiry Topic Y138: The Execution of Charles I and the Interregnum 1646-1660

• The course explores one of the most tumultuous periods in British history - years of assassination attempts, civil war, usurpations, and revolution. It begins by exploring the religious, financial, and foreign policy challenges faced by James I. This is followed by a study of the reign of Charles I, whose and quarrels with Parliament provoked a civil war that led to his execution. The course concludes by examining the Interregnum; a time of intense conflict, experimentation with different forms of government, and cultural transformation, ultimately leading to the restoration of the monarchy.

Unit 2: World History Study-Y246 The USA in the Nineteenth Century: Westward Expansion and the Civil War 1803-1890

• The course looks at how the USA grew after independence from Britain. It deals with the growth of the nation from the original colonies on the east coast to the huge nation that it became by the end of the century. A special study is made of the Civil War, examining how divisions between North and South over slavery led to a struggle that nearly destroyed the new country. The dramatic stories of the war are brought alive through the magnetic personalities of the period – including Abraham Lincoln, Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant.

Unit 3:

Y316 Britain and Ireland

• The course focuses on the relationship between Britain and Ireland during a time of growing Irish nationalism and periods of revolutionary action. Students look at attempts to make the Union work as well as the risings of 1798, 1848 and 1916.

OR

Y318 Russia and its Rulers 1855-1964

• The focus is on the changing nature of the Russian government and the often dramatic input it had on the Russian people. The course contrasts the rule of the last three Tsars to that of Lenin, Stalin and Khrushchev. Students will investigate the turbulent history of Russia from Alexander II and the abolition of serfdom, through the upheavals of the communist revolution, and the dictatorship of Stalin..

Unit 4:

Non exam assessment: Consent and Coercion in the Third Reich

• Students look at aspects of the Third Reich before producing an essay based on independent study.

Unit 1: Written examination of essays and source questions

Unit 2: Written examination of essays

Unit 3: Written examination of 2 hours 30 minutes, covering both essays and interpretations

Unit 4: Y100 Topic based essay

An extended essay of 3000-4000 words based on the material studied in class. The work will be produced as part of the course in class.

GCSE grade 5 in History or 5 in English Language or Literature if not studied previously.