HISTORY A Level 3

Applications Open: - 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - We would, ideally, like applications to be submitted by Thursday 8th January 2026, when planning for the timetable will begin, but applications will be accepted after this date

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

Minimum Entry Requirements

The admissions criteria for the Sixth Form are as follows:

- A minimum of 6 separately identifiable GCSE subjects (or equivalent) at an average grade of 5.5 or above

- These 6 subjects must include at least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and at least a grade 4 in Mathematics

- You will require a grade 6 or above in most subjects you wish to study at A Level

- To study Mathematics, Modern Foreign Languages or a Science subject you will require a grade 7

- To study Economics a grade 7 or above in Mathematics is required and a 6+ or above in Business or a related subject

- Students may be able to study a Science subject with a 6 grade but their 4th option choice must be STEM Access forming part of your Personal Enrichment Pathway

- For Further Mathematics you will need an 8 or 9

- Short Courses count as half a GCSE

- A positive attitude in your chosen subjects and a respect for school aims, objectives and ethos

- Commitment to the expectations of the Sixth Form and the school community

- Students will not be admitted if they have not completed the appropriate paperwork

The A Level is designed to test the candidate’s achievement as a historian, to analyse historical material, to construct a historical argument and to display historical judgement. A Level is not simply about making notes and writing essays. You must be prepared to think, contribute to class discussion and read widely if you are to enjoy the subject and gain a good grade.

The A Level History course will involve the study of History in breadth and depth. There will be 2 exam papers covering the below periods:

Unit 1C – The Tudors (1485 – 1603) worth 40%

Unit 2R - The Cold War, 1945-1991 worth 40%

There will also be a coursework element focusing on the American Civil Rights Movement which is worth 20%. The essay will be 3000-3500 words analysing he significance of individuals over a 100-year time period.

There will be two exam papers at the end of the course.

Paper 1C Tudors

Q1 source analysis on historical interpretations

Q2 and 3. Choose one essay.

Paper 2R The Cold War

Q1 validity of primary sources

Q2 and 3. Choose one essay.

The units are taught by a variety of staff in the department. Lessons include formal teaching/seminar, written work, discussion and debate whilst using a variety of different source material. A variety of visits are arranged, for example this year our students have visited Hampton Court Palace and nearby Universities. Visiting speakers may come into school, particularly esteemed historians of the Tudor Period or Cold War and our local Historical Association Branch provide a wealth of related talks.

Minimum Entry Requirements

A Level History is required to study History or Archaeology at university but because it sharpens the critical faculties it is invaluable in preparation for careers in the Law, the Diplomatic or Civil Service, Politics and Medicine. It is also highly regarded as an A Level in the areas of Journalism and Media, Management and Finance.

A Level History combines well with many other subjects, especially English.