History A Level

Applications Open: - 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - To be confirmed

Entry Requirements: - 5 GCSEs Grade 9-4 - Some requirements vary slightly dependent on course.

How to Apply: - Please apply via Applica here

About the Course

Board: OCR

“History is written backwards, but lived forwards.” Madeleine Albright

Advanced Level History is a two year course and all students will be entered for the qualification at the end of Year 13.

Although wide in range this course has something for everyone, especially as it focuses on the three important areas of economic, political and social history. All are present in the first year through the Britain and South East Asia topics and Year 13 will continue along similar lines, but with a very British centric focus. So by studying at Advanced Level students will be able to formulate ideas and arguments on the nature of society and the actions of governments in the past and often link it to the present day.

Students, who study at this level will need to have a genuine interest in the subject, really enjoy reading and writing and have a strong work ethic. Additional assets include debating ideas and evaluating the opinions of others.

Units of Study

Year 1

Unit 1: Britain 1900–1951 (British Period Study)

(Enquiry topic: England and a New Century c.1900–1918)

(25% of A Level)

Students will begin the course with the enquiry topic which focuses on the political problems facing the Conservatives and Liberals up to 1914, New Liberalism and welfare reforms, Home Rule in Ireland, women’s suffrage, the impact of the First World War and the 1916 split in the Liberal party.

This is followed by the period study which will include: British economic, political and social issues. Topics range from the General Strike 1926, the Great Depression, the Abdication Crisis, Britain and the Home Front and the Attlee government and the beginning of the welfare state.

Assessment: 1 hour and 30 minutes examination

One source based question analysing and interpreting historical interpretations based on the Enquiry topic and then one essay focused period study.

Unit 2: The Cold War in Asia 1945-1993

(15% of the A Level)

Students will focus on Post war western policies in Asia, The Korean War, the Vietnam War and the conflict in Cambodia.

Assessment: 1 hour examination

One question based on comparing two major events and one essay question.

Year 2

Unit 3: (40% of the A Level)

Thematic Study: Rebellion and Disorder under the Tudors, 1485-1603

This includes: The main causes of rebellion and disorder, the frequency and nature of disturbances, the impact upon Tudor governments and the maintenance of political stability.

Depth study: Students will learn about the debates surrounding the following: The Pilgrimage of Grace, the Western Rebellion and Tyrone’s Rebellion in Ireland.

Assessment: 2 hours and 30 minutes examination

One depth study source based interpretation question followed by two thematic study essay questions.

Unit 4: Coursework (Independent assignment)

(20% of the A Level) 3000–4000 word essay

Students will analyse and evaluate interpretations of history as part of an independently researched assignment.

Previous topics have included:

Votes for woman

Battle of the Somme

Battle of Britain

Units of Study

Year 1

Unit 1: Britain 1900–1951 (British Period Study)

(Enquiry topic: England and a New Century c.1900–1918)

(25% of A Level)

Assessment: 1 hour and 30 minutes examination

Unit 2: The Cold War in Asia 1945-1993

(15% of the A Level)

Assessment: 1 hour examination

One question based on comparing two major events and one essay question.

Year 2

Unit 3: (40% of the A Level)

Thematic Study: Rebellion and Disorder under the Tudors, 1485-1603

Assessment: 2 hours and 30 minutes examination

One depth study source based interpretation question followed by two thematic study essay questions.

Unit 4: Coursework (Independent assignment)

(20% of the A Level) 3000–4000 word essay

The impact of the Women’s Suffrage Movement on gaining votes for women (1897-1918)

Or

Chamberlain and appeasement: was he a guilty man? (British foreign policy 1931-1939)

Students must have either a 6 or above in GCSE History and/or a 6 in English Literature.

Previous History students have gone on to University to study History, History and Politics, Archaeology, International Relations, Journalism, Law and Military Studies.