History

Why study History?


Not only is History an interesting, exciting subject which helps you understand the world today, it will also provide an excellent foundation for future academic and employment success. You will develop skills which you can transfer to other subjects, as well as skills that are highly sought after in the workplace. 

History will help you to understand people’s motives and actions and to appreciate a range of opinions, as well as learning to evaluate varied source material with confidence.

History students are attractive recruits for universities and employers. In particular, it is valued in careers such as law, journalism, television production and research, advertising, marketing, business management, and accountancy.

We are entering a new era of politics, global trade and international relations.  There are lessons to be learned throughout History in all these areas.  

A recent report stated that 'a truly remarkable number of History graduates have gone on to become the 'movers and shakers of modern-day Britain.'

Our past History students have said


"I really love History because of how fun it is and how engaging all the teachers are – the topics are amazing!"


"I have really enjoyed being able to discuss issues that are going on around the world, and actually know what I am talking about!"


"It has made me more knowledgeable and widened my perception of the world."

Why is studying History so important?  

Studying History helps you develop skills you can use in any job or career 

Read how Dominic became a member of youth parliament

Hear Mona explain what she does as a media researcher

Listen to the community focused young mayor of Lewisham talking about his aspirations

Where can studying History take you?

As well as being fascinating in and of itself, History is a recommended qualification for:

You will also gain important transferable skills that will be of benefit to many other careers areas, including:


Listen to a former GCSE & A-Level student speak about the course

A St Marylebone Sixth Former reflects on their study & future ambitions  

Department Specific Websites or Links to Enrichment students can explore:
Russia 1894-1945: Tsardom and Communism

Russia: Countdown to Revolution - 1917, February/March Revolution.  October/November Revolution. Documentary film, 1 hour.

Ten Days That Shook The World - Russian Revolution 1917. Documentary film, 1 hour 25 mins.

Conflict and tension between East and West, 1945-1972 (The Cold War)

Dr Strangelove - Film about the fear of nuclear war and Mutually Assured Destruction. 1 hour 31  mins.

Good Bye, Lenin! - Film about the collapse of the Berlin Wall and life in East Germany. 1 hour 58 mins.

How Wars Begin: The Cold War, by AJP Taylor - End of WW2, start of Cold War, ideology and mistrust.  30 minute lecture.

Secret Life of the Berlin Wall - Stories of lives affected by the Berlin Wall Documentary episode, 1 hr 30 mins

Restoration England, 1660-1685

Harlots, Housewives and Heroines: Restoration Women by Lucy Worsley - Role and status of women in restoration England, the court, actresses, working women. Documentary series, 3 episodes, 1 hour each.

The Stuarts, by Claire Jackson - Lead up to the Civil War, experience of war, Restoration, Glorious Revolution, importance of religion.  Documentary series, 3 episodes, 1 hour each.

Are there Apprenticeship pathways that champion my love of History and use the skills I am developing?

Of course, you develop so many skills and specialist interests through the study that are relevant in life and your career. Apprenticeships can be of at all levels,  and found across a multitude of disciplines. Take a look at the video linked on the icon displayed and explore the Amazing Apprenticeship Website for more information.