History

Welcome to History in the Sixth Form at CHS

I am Mr Bell and welcome to the History Department. 

Our History A Level allows you to study a much wider variety of topics to those you have studied at GCSE and allows you to explore the origins of the key political, racial and religious issues of our time. We hope you find the topics we have carefully selected as fascinating and enlightening as we do. If you're curious to discover how the American Civil War resulted in the end of slavery in the USA, or how Henry VIII's determination to marry Anne Boleyn radically altered the trajectory of English history, or how the Civil Rights developed in the America, then this is the subject for you. 

We use the OCR exam board - the History A (H505) specification.  

Start by watching the video here to learn more >>>


Copy of NEW HP_-_History_Sixth_Form_Open_Day_1080p.mp4

Brief overview of course

Lower Sixth

Upper Sixth

England 1485-1558: the Early Tudors 

Civil Rights in the USA: 1865-1992

The USA in the 19th Century: Westwards expansion and Civil War 1803-c.1890

Coursework 

Student testimonies 

What our previous students have said...

"Both sides of the history course have been thoroughly enjoyable and equally challenging but have tested me in ways that have made me a better student." 

"Not only have I found A-Level History both interesting and enjoyable, it has also provided me with skills that no other subject has. I have noticed this when writing my UCAS personal statement, being able to easily apply my essay writing skills from history to produce a good piece of structured writing."

"This subject has not only made me develop a greater appreciation and understanding of the world in which we live, it has also enhanced my critical and evaluative skills, enabling me to scrutinise information and present a structured argument"

"History has been fascinating. Not only have I have been able to study new topics such as American Westwards Expansion... but History has also provided me with analytical and writing skills that I don’t think I would find in many other subjects. I love history!" 


Co-curricular opportunities 

Biennial trip to Washington - visit... 

Other opportunities: 

FAQ: Are there any GCSE requirements? 

You need to have studied History at GCSE and have secured at least a grade 6. 

FAQ: Are there lots of essays? 

There is no getting away from the fact that you will become skilled in the art of essay writing if you study A Level History. However, do not fear this! One of the strongest reasons to study History at A Level is because it will really develop your ability to express and structure a balanced argument on paper - vital if you are considering careers such as law. 

FAQ: How much support is provided in the run up to exams? 

We pride ourselves in how supporting we are as a department and after-school clinics are on offer during Year 13 if you need extra support. Most members of the Department also work as examiners for OCR during the summer holidays, meaning that we have a clear understanding of exacting how the mark schemes work and the best technique you should stick to. 

FAQ: I'm worried about the linear structure to A Levels - how will I remember all the material from Year 12 if I'm not examined on it until the end of Year 13? 

The only unit which we don't spend lesson time teaching in Year 13 is the USA in the 19th Century unit. However, we provide extra lunchtime clinics during Year 13 to keep this material fresh in your minds. 

FAQ: Is there any extra support for Oxbridge applicants? 

We have a strong record with Oxbridge applications. Extra one-to-one meetings will be arranged with a History Oxbridge coach, where you will talk through the application process, personal statement and conduct practice interviews.  

FAQ: Which other subjects should I study alongside History?  

History is an extremely versatile subject owing to the fact that it involves dipping into absolutely every other academic discipline - whether this be psychology, economics, religious studies, science, politics or literature. Therefore, our previous students have successfully combined their historical studies with a wide range of subject combinations.  

FAQ: What's the point in studying History? Are there any careers this helps prepare me for? 

History is an excellent facilitator subject, commonly asked for in university entry requirements, regardless of the course you are applying for. This makes it an excellent choice if you are looking to keep your options open at this stage. 

This is because the study of history develops transferable skills, such as the ability to analyse and evaluate different types of evidence, the ability to structure, articulate and defend a coherent argument, as well as developing historical empathy and discerning historical figures' motivations. History therefore is ideal if you are thinking of pursuing a career in any of the following areas: 

The History Team.

Please contact our Head of Department if you have any further questions .