Medieval History

The Programme:

Historical events have shaped society into what it is today.  Take the Magna Carta.  Signed in1215, it was a charter which covered topics like taxes and citizens’ rights.  But it didn’t exist in isolation.  The Magna Carta would not have happened without the Norman Conquest of 1066.  And there’s a direct line between the Magna Carta and the US Constitution, signed in 1787.  And the US Constitution is a role model for governance even today.

At AS, there are two themes: ‘Change and Consolidation’, which includes how societies change over time and how governments respond to the need for change, and ‘Periods of Change’, which looks at significant periods of history.  History is all about change….how wars, catastrophes, laws, policies, actions or inventions changed the way that people live.

At A2, there are another two major themes.  The first one is ‘The State and the People: Change and Continuity’.  This exciting theme covers the relationship between the state and citizens over a 50 year period.  The second theme, ‘Historical Enquiry’, looks at life-changing events over a 100 year period and includes a coursework essay.

An A Level in History gives you knowledge and skills which will prepare you for higher education, and which are also useful in any career.  Students who specialise in history can go on to become historical researchers, work in heritage organisations or become teachers.  But history also supports other career paths, such as journalism, politics, law, social work and public services.

The History Department at Carmel offers expertise, enthusiasm, dedication and attention to detail.  Lessons are structured, yet friendly; work is challenging, yet satisfying; expectations are high, yet realistic.

Requirements:

It is not necessary to have studied history at GCSE to embark on the AS course.  You will need a grade B or higher in English, however, to do well in this subject.  Opt for us only if you are able to work independently and love to read.  (You have been warned!)

Next steps:

The study of history develops a variety of skills valued by universities and employers alike.  Talk to us!  Ask for details of the course.

Student comment:

‘Very enjoyable.  The essays are challenging as a good standard of written English is important.’