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History A Level

Queen Elizabeths Grammar School

Abbey Place, FAVERSHAM, ME13 7BQ

GCE A/AS Level or Equivalent
Level 3
History, Philosophy and Theology

Available start dates

Available start dates

Sunday, 01 September 2024
Queen Elizabeths Grammar School
2 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours
<p>There will be a charge for trips and visits etc.</p>

Application Instructions

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED FOR SEPTEMBER 2026 ENTRY.

Entry Requirements - Please follow the link and download our Options Guide to view the entry requirements for Sixth Form and individual subjects https://www.queenelizabeths.kent.sch.uk/learning/sixth-form/thinking-about-joining-queen-elizabeths-grammar-school-for-sixth-form/

How to Apply -

Internals - Google Form - Speak to Mr Cowlam or Mrs Gossling

Externals - Through Kent Choices

https://www.queenelizabeths.kent.sch.uk/learning/sixth-form/applying-to-the-sixth-form/

You must select a minimum AND maximum of 5 subject choices:

Option A - 3 main subject choices* + an enhancement subject choice** + a reserve subject choice***

Option B - 4 main subject choices + a reserve subject choice

*a main subject choice is a full A Level subject e.g Mathematics/Geography/Physics/German etc
** an enhancement subject choice is either EPQ, Maths in Context or Trinity Acting Exams
***a reserve choice can be either a full A Level or another enhancement option

Course Summary

History

A Level

AQA Advanced Level GCE in History

Why study History?

The GCE History course has been designed to help students understand the value and significance of world events in the past. In the process you’ll gain a deeper understanding of social, cultural, religious and ethnic diversity. Knowing how people lived in the past helps to understand why people act like they do today.

Course Details

Examined Components

Component one

Historical Themes in Breadth - The Tudors: England, 1485-1603

The course covers the reigns of Henry VII, Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary I and Elizabeth I. It gives students the opportunity to study in breadth one the most fascinating royal dynasties in English history. The course focuses on the character and aims of each monarch as well as the religious, political, social and economic changes which took place during their reigns. Furthermore, it looks at the structure of Tudor society, how it was governed, trade and exploration as well as cultural movements like Humanism and the Renaissance.

Component 2

Historical Depth Study - The Cold War c1945-1991

This option provides for the study in depth of the evolving course of international relations during an era of tension between communist and capitalist powers which threatened nuclear Armageddon. It explores concepts such as communism and anti-communism, aggression and détente and also encourages students to reflect on the power of modern military technology, what hastens confrontation and what forces promote peace in the modern world.


Component three

Historical Investigation (Coursework Essay) - American Civil Rights 1863-1965

Students also have the chance to research and write an extended essay on the role of different individuals in the Civil Rights movement. Students will have Term 6 of Year 12 to investigate the topic and are directed to key books, debates and sources as well as having the opportunity to deduce key arguments for themselves. Writing is only undertaken after considerable reading and planning is completed.

Enrichment:

A variety of experiences including individual research, whole class discussion, seminars and use of various multi-media resources. Opportunities exist to visit London for subject specific lectures and potentially Moscow and St. Petersburg so as to deepen the students understanding of Tsarist and Communist Russia.


How will it be delivered and assessed?

Structure of the course

The AQA GCE (A-Level) History course comprises of three components. Components 1 and 2 make up 80% of the overall course and are assessed by written examination at the end of the course. Component 3 makes up the final 20% of a student’s overall mark and is a historical investigation (coursework) where a student can choose from a range of questions that cover a period of at least 100 years.

Entry requirements

Students must achieve a grade 6 or higher at GCSE in History.

Your next steps...

What happens when you finish?

Students could take this course with other advanced level courses or equivalent to prepare for Higher Education in History or related subjects such as English, American Studies, Politics, Archaeology or more general courses.

Students who specialise in History can go on to become historical researchers, work in heritage organisations or become teachers. But history also supports other career paths, like journalism, politics, law, social work and public services.


The course will also help you develop the skills, understanding and knowledge that many employers across lots of industries are looking for.

  • History Degree
  • Law
  • Police
  • Journalism
  • Politics
  • Teaching

For more courses like this, check our courses page.