History

Our Key Stage 3 History curriculum is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the past and the knowledge and skills needed to investigate historical events, people and societies. The curriculum develops students' historical literacy, critical thinking and ability to analyse and evaluate evidence from a range of sources.

In Year 7, students are introduced to the study of History through an exploration of key periods and events from the medieval world. Topics may include the Norman Conquest, medieval life, the power of the Church, and the development of monarchy in England. This provides a foundation of knowledge about how societies changed over time and how historians interpret the past.

In Year 8, students deepen their understanding of History through the study of the early modern and industrial periods. Students explore topics such as the English Civil War, the Industrial Revolution, the British Empire and the transatlantic slave trade. Through these studies, students examine the causes and consequences of historical change and consider the experiences of different groups within society.

In Year 9, students engage with modern history and significant global events that help prepare them for GCSE History. Through units on the First World War, the Second World War, the Holocaust, civil rights movements and twentieth-century social change, students explore how individuals, governments and societies responded to challenges and shaped the modern world.

Throughout Key Stage 3, students are encouraged to ask challenging questions, analyse historical evidence and interpretations, and develop reasoned arguments supported by evidence. This prepares them for further study at GCSE and equips them with the knowledge and understanding needed to become informed, thoughtful and active citizens in a changing world.

Our Key Stage 4 History curriculum is designed to develop students' understanding of significant events, individuals and developments that have shaped Britain and the wider world. Through the study of a range of historical periods and themes, students build their knowledge of the past while developing the analytical, evaluative and investigative skills required for GCSE History.

Students study Medicine Through Time, which explores the development of medical knowledge, treatments and public health from the medieval period to the modern day. Through this thematic study, students investigate the factors that have influenced progress in medicine, including the role of science, technology, war and key individuals.

In Early Elizabethan England, students examine the challenges and achievements of Elizabeth I's reign between 1558 and 1588. They explore religious settlement, government, society, exploration and the threat posed by the Spanish Armada, developing an understanding of how political, religious and social factors shaped Tudor England.

Through Superpower Relations and the Cold War, students investigate the origins, development and end of the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union. They analyse key events including the Berlin Crisis, the Cuban Missile Crisis and the construction of the Berlin Wall, considering how international relations were influenced by ideological conflict and political tensions.

In The USA: Conflict at Home and Abroad, students explore the political, social and cultural developments that shaped the United States during the twentieth century. They examine issues such as civil rights, protest movements, foreign policy and conflict, considering how these events transformed American society and influenced the wider world.

Throughout Key Stage 4, students develop their ability to analyse historical sources and interpretations, explain causation and consequence, identify change and continuity, and construct well-supported historical arguments. This prepares them for success in GCSE examinations and equips them with the critical thinking skills needed to understand the complexities of the modern world.

At Key Stage 4, students complete a range of assessments that prepare them for success in the Edexcel GCSE History examinations. At the end of each unit, students sit GCSE-style assessments that reflect the format and expectations of the final examinations.

Regular exam practice is embedded throughout the course, allowing students to develop their knowledge, exam technique and confidence in answering a variety of question types. Alongside formal assessments, teachers use regular formative assessment strategies, including retrieval practice, quizzes, questioning and exam-style tasks, to monitor progress and identify areas for improvement.

Students complete a full mock examination at the end of Year 10 and two further mock examinations during Year 11, providing valuable opportunities to assess progress and prepare for the final GCSE examinations.

Students are expected to engage fully in lessons, revise regularly, complete all classwork and homework to a high standard, and take responsibility for their own progress throughout the course.

In the History Department we strongly believe there has never been a more important time to study History – a subject that is not only academically challenging but crucial for an understanding of one another and of the world we live in. We are committed to passing on our love of the subject, in the courses we teach and through our extra-curricular activities.

The department also offers a club each term.

Regarded as a 'facilitating subject' by many universities, history is often studied alongside sociology, psychology, business, English and economics.
History can lead on to a large range of careers from law, politics and business through to creative media, journalism, broadcasting and tourism management.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zk26n39

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a7c66d740f0b626628abcdd/SECONDARY_national_curriculum_-_History.pdf

https://www.youtube.com/@bbcteach

At Key Stage 3, students are set homework on a fortnightly basis. Homework is designed to consolidate learning from lessons, strengthen subject knowledge and develop independent study skills.

Tasks may include retrieval activities, research, reading, revision and extended writing. Students are expected to complete all homework to a high standard and by the required deadline.
 

• Colchester Castle
• Hedingham Castle
• Imperial War Museum