Our aims
Welcome to the History Department
The History Department is committed to inspiring curiosity about the past and helping students develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. Through the study of local, national and international history, students learn to think critically, analyse evidence, communicate effectively and develop the investigative skills that prepare them for further study and future careers. History encourages students to ask questions, challenge interpretations and understand how past events continue to shape our society today. We strive to create engaging and enjoyable learning experiences that foster a lifelong interest in the subject.
History encourages students to ask questions, challenge interpretations and understand how past events continue to shape our society today. We strive to create engaging and enjoyable learning experiences that foster a lifelong interest in the subject.
Departmental staff
- Mrs C Sparkes (Head of Department)
- Mr M Martin (Head of English)
- Ms H Cassidy (Head of Travel and Tourism)
Curriculum
Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3, students develop their historical knowledge and skills through the study of a range of topics from different periods of history. Throughout the course, pupils learn how to analyse sources, evaluate evidence, explain historical events and construct well-argued written responses.
Our KS3 curriculum aims to build strong foundations for GCSE study while encouraging an enthusiasm for learning about the past.
GCSE
History CCEA
Students follow the CCEA GCSE History specification and study:
Life in Nazi Germany, 1933-1945
Students investigate the rise of Hitler and the Nazi Party, life in Nazi Germany, the impact of dictatorship on ordinary people and the events that led to the downfall of the regime.
Northern Ireland: The Troubles & Good Friday Agreement, 1965-1998
Students explore the causes, key events and consequences of the Troubles, examining different perspectives and the development of the peace process.
International Relations, 1945-2003
Students investigate international relations from the beginning of the Cold War in 1945 through to the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001 and the subsequent War on Terror.
GCSE History helps pupils develop valuable analytical, evaluative and communication skills that are highly regarded by universities and employers.
AS/A2
CCEA AS Level History
AS Unit 1 Germany 1914-41
Students examine the challenges facing Germany after the First World War, the Weimar Republic and the rise of Hitler and the Nazi Party.
AS Unit 2 Russia 1914-41
Students study Russia during a period of significant change, including revolution, civil war and the development of the Soviet state.
CCEA A2 Level History
A2 Unit 1 The American Presidency 1901-2000
Students explore the changing role of the President of the United States and assess the impact of key twentieth-century presidents on American society and world affairs
A2 Unit 2 Partition of Ireland 1900-1925
Students investigate the political, social and economic developments that led to the partition of Ireland and examine its consequences.
Beyond the Classroom
We believe History comes alive when students experience it beyond textbooks. Students are encouraged to engage with enrichment activities, educational visits, documentaries, reading and online learning opportunities that deepen their understanding of the past. Opportunities to explore historical sites and participate in history-related activities help students connect classroom learning with the wider world.
History Careers
History develops a wide range of transferable skills that open doors to many career pathways, including:
- Law
- Teaching
- Journalism
- Politics
- Civil Service
- Business and Management
- Marketing
- Archaeology
- Museums and Heritage
- Public Relations
- Research