History A-Level

APPLICATIONS NOW CLOSED - please apply via the Towers School website

Applications Open: - 11th December 2025

Applications Close: - 13th February 2026

Entry Requirements: - Admission to Towers Sixth Form to study A levels or BTEC equivalent will be awarded on the basis of GCSE performance. Each subject has its own entry requirements.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

Studying A-Level History not only helps improve your knowledge of the past, but it also helps you gain skills that are invaluable in many jobs. Some of these skills include analysing, researching, communication and problem-solving. You will also gain the ability to prioritise information and learn how to make vital decisions. This helps you to build an important skill set needed for progression into university or a career.

History A Level is assessed by 2 examinations at the end of Year 13 and a NEA (coursework)

Paper 1: Challenge and Transformation: Britain, c1851–1964 (2hrs 30)

Paper 2: The American Dream: Reality and Illusion, 1945–1980 (2hrs 30)

NEA: Historical investigation

A personal study based on a topic of the student's choice. This should take the form of a question to be discussed in essay form and the period of study should cover approximately 100 years. Students will select and analyse appropriate interpretations, as well as sources to support and challenge these.

Two written exams: each worth 40% of the final mark

A personal study: worth 20% of the final mark.

Grade 5 in History or Geography

Grade 5 in English Language or Literature

History is a highly respected A level and very popular at degree level. History is one of the Russell Group universities’ ‘facilitating’ subjects — so called because choosing them at A-level allows a wide range of options for degree study. One of the most flexible of qualifications, History provides an excellent pathway to degrees such as History, English and Philosophy, and beyond that to a range of interesting careers. The analytical skills required for History A level also make it a natural foundation for anyone wishing to study Law.

A degree in History also leads to many career options: you don’t just have to become a History teacher (nothing wrong with that, of course!). These include journalism, the Civil Service, librarianship, banking and commerce, the law, publishing, museums and art galleries, political advisors and a wide variety of social work.

History A Level is a new course at Towers; this year’s students are currently applying for BA (Hons) Law and apprenticeships.