If you enjoy the study of the past both for its own sake and also for the light it throws on the present, then History A level is for you. It trains you to select relevant information, assess the validity of an argument, think and write logically, make informed judgements about controversial issues and present a well-ordered case backed by supporting evidence thereby equipping you for a wide variety of careers. If you like stimulating discussions, independent and group study and wish to really find out about the world in which we live, then please read on.

A Level History sits the AQA exam board, which requires two exams (each worth 40%) a non-examined assessment (worth 20%).

Please refer to our Sixth Form prospectus for entry requirements.

History has two taught modules; Germany, the quest for political stability 1871-1991 This is the breadth study looking at how Germany was affected by key events such as unification and the world wars and key people such as Bismarck, Hitler and Kohl on its journey back to reunification and the fall of the Berlin Wall. The making of modern Britain 1951-2007 This is the depth study of key political, economic, social and international changes, which helped to mould Britain in the second half of the 20th century. It explores concepts such as government and opposition, class, social division and cultural change covering the Swinging Sixties to Tony Blair’s ‘special relationship’ with the USA. The third module is a non-examined assessment in which pupils will chose to do independent research on either Russia under the Tsars 1801-1917 or the rise and fall of Witchcraft persecutions in Europe 1560-1660.

There will be an opportunity for 2 students to participate in the Lessons from the Auschwitz programme which involves a trip to Poland and the department runs relevant revision conference trips throughout the year. We work regularly with Doncaster Museum & Art Gallery on collaborative projects including Holocaust Memorial Day, Doncaster 14 - 18 Project. We have run trips to Berlin and Krakow in the past, while also having visiting lecturers where relevant and trips to University libraries.

Studying history makes you very versatile and can open up many opportunities in a breadth of different disciplines. The skill most developed by History is that of critical analysis and the ability to express ideas, knowledge and interpretations clearly and coherently. In the fields of management, law, administration, accountancy, journalism and marketing, this is a highly valued asset. Many universities and employers regard A level History as an excellent training in the researching and preparation of arguments and in decision-making.