History

Subject Mission Statement

The History department intends to deliver a broad and diverse History curriculum that encourages students to investigate the past through the study of competing narratives. Students develop historical skills through a rigorous and challenging curriculum that equips them to explore the past.

Overview

A Level History lends itself to detailed discussion and the sharing of ideas and interpretations. It builds on key skills of logic and reasoning as well as studying the views of different Historians. Unit 1 focuses on the Early Stuarts and the Origins of the Civil War 1603-1660 and includes a source enquiry study on the execution of Charles I and the Interregnum 1646-1660. Unit 2 examines the impact of WW1 on Germany, the rise of Hitler, Nazi Germany, the Holocaust, the impact of WW2 and the defeat of Germany and the Federal Republic and the GDR 1949–1963. Unit 3 covers the study study of different groups in US society and how their civil rights change. These groups are African Americans, woman, trade unions and Native Americans in the period 1865-1992. In Unit 4 students will produce an in-depth study of between 3000-4000 words about a historical controversy of their choice: developing planning, organisational and research skills in extended writing.

KS5 Intent Statement

The Key Stage 5 curriculum offers students the opportunity to explore a broad and diverse curriculum through the OCR exam board. Students in Year 12 study two pivotal moments in British and European History through the exploration of the Causes of the English Civil War and the Rise of Nazi Germany. Students in Year 13 investigate a diverse history of different marginalised groups in American society and their competing narratives through an in-depth study of Civil Rights in the USA. These topics encourage students to study in greater depth the topics that they have been introduced to at Key stage 3 and 4, allowing students to pick up core narrative threads that underpin political, ideological, religious, economic and social themes.

Furthermore, the History department aims to inspire students further in their learning, beyond the taught curriculum with a programme of outside of the classroom opportunities, guest speakers, Top University event; which are carefully targeted to encourage vulnerable student groups’ to participate.

Students can further develop their historical skills of analysis of contemporary documents, evaluation of a range of academic interpretations, and engagement with contemporary historical debate and are able to communicate their ideas clearly and convincingly. Ultimately culminating in the 4000 word essay based independent enquiry, of their choice, which allows students to utilise the skills set that they have mastered throughout their study of History at Highcliffe School. This rigorous and challenging project is a culmination of seven years of historical study which ultimately prepares students for further academic study.

Qualification Details

Exam Board: OCR
Qualification Title: History
Qualification Specification Code: H505
Qualification Webpage: Click here to visit the OCR webpage for the specification.

Entry Requirements

Standard Sixth Form entry requirements

What will I study in this qualification?

The summary of components is as follows:

• Unit 1: Early Stuarts and Origins of the Civil War 1603 – 1660 25%

• Unit 2: Democracy and Dictatorships in Germany 1919–1963 15%

• Unit 3: A Thematic Study on USA Civil Rights 1865-1992 40%

• Unit 4: Topic Based Essay about a Historical Controversy of your choice 20%

Possible Career Paths

History lends itself to a variety of degree courses including Law, International Relations, Politics, Economics Journalism, Business and Finance and of course History. History is also a popular choice for joint honours degrees with subjects such as: English Literature, International Relations, Languages, Politics, Economics and American Studies. History supports careers and Higher Education courses in Legal professions, Journalism, Diplomacy, Social Work, Teaching, Heritage Organisations and the Security Services. Our aim is to create independent learners, critical thinkers and decision-makers – all personal assets that can make them stand out as they progress to higher education and/or the workplace.

Who should I speak to if I need further information?

Mrs Coffin