History (Democracies in Change)

This pathway gives students the chance to study the political history of two of the major democratic powers of the 20th Century: Britain and the USA.  The 20th century was a period of massive upheavals, both politically and socially, and so this pathway offers students the chance to examine in great detail how the events of the century impacted ordinary people's lives.  It also provides context for students studying politics as it provides context for our own century and the issues that still dominate our lives.

For Paper 1 you will study the extent to which Britain was transformed politically, socially, economically and culturally in the years 1918–79. You will consider responses to the challenges of war, fluctuations in the economy, technological advancement and the desire for greater social equality.  The special focus for this pathway will examine historical interpretations on the impact Thatcher’s governments had on Britain between 1979–97.

Paper 2 focuses on the USA in the years 1955–92, from post-1945 affluence, through racial and political protests in the 1960s, to the rise of right-wing groups in the 1980s and the development of bitter divisions between Democrats and Republicans. This paper has a source focus, requiring you to examine the ways historians use contemporary sources as part of historical enquiries.

For the 3rd paper, students will have the following choice: Protest, Agitation and Parliamentary Reform1780-1928 or Rebellion and Disorder under the Tudors 1485-1603.  However, it is important to note that these choices will have some limitations and will need to be made by May half term of year 1. The implications will be explained at this point.

Finally there is a non-examined assessment, or coursework, the purpose of which is to enable history students to develop skills in the analysis and evaluation of interpretations of history in a chosen question, problem or issue as part of an independently researched assignment.  Students will be required to form a critical view of an area of historical debate based on relevant reading on the question, problem or issue. Students at Cirencester have the freedom to complete a centre set assignment, based on one of their three examined papers, or they may choose their own topic to research. This offers those students the chance to go beyond the exam specification and really explore a period of history that is interesting to them.  Those who choose a centre-set question will also benefit, as their study will take them deeper into and beyond what the exam requires, and they often emerge more confident and with a better understanding of the exam topics. 

We have had students undertaking work placements in History departments within local schools.  This has proven to be invaluable for those wishing to enter the teaching profession.

We run a History Society as part of the College's enrichment programme. This is run by our students, who take turns to present a short lecture on a period or event of history that interests them. Our lecturers also take part, allowing us to reveal what led us to a study of History.

Essay writing is one of the very valuable skills we teach you at A-Level History. There are fewer different question types at A-level than at GCSE. We will teach you techniques for writing essays which develop the skills you already have. You won’t have to do one every week.

Yes it will. The specification has been designed by exam boards in close consultation with universities. It is therefore a highly-regarded qualification which universities particularly value on UCAS applications. History is named as a ‘facilitating’ subject by the Russell Group of universities, meaning that it is a subject that universities particularly look for on applications for a wide range of different courses (not just History courses). A good grade in History at A-Level will make you stand out as a strong candidate when applying for university, whatever subject you choose to study.

History is an interesting and worthwhile subject which broadens your understanding of the contemporary world and your analytical skills. By the time you complete your A-Level in History you will be able to write, argue, persuade, debate, process information, weigh up evidence, reach and present conclusions. These skills are highly prized by employers in a very wide range of fields, including business, management, journalism and the media, law, politics and the civil service, economics, finance and accounting, the arts, tourism and heritage.