History

The study of History encourages students to develop their understanding of the past and to place that understanding into a modern context, both within Britain and the wider world. The subject encompasses a range of analytical and critical thinking skills based on historical sources, interpretations and evidence and allows students to form reasoned opinions. Consequently, students are able to articulate substantiated judgements about the role of historical events, individuals and periods. The development of these historical qualities translates into excellent transferable skills, helping students to achieve excellence now and in their future choices and careers, informed by a broad base of understanding yet supported by highly-developed evaluation. As inquisitive individuals, History students are prepared to sequence, assess and question the accuracy of what they read and process critical skills for a generation that must be equipped for the demands of a fast-changing modern world, requiring ever-greater digital interaction. Yet, at the core of the History curriculum is high-quality academic writing, developing vocabulary, fluency and quality of argument through a knowledge-rich curriculum which positively identifies opportunities for wider reading. 

The subject naturally inspires passionate, enthusiastic students who relish the opportunity to learn more about the past. In doing so, they can become more confident, responsible citizens making a positive contribution to society based on a strong sense of how history has inspired the present.

Year 9

The Twentieth Century World

A World study after 1900 which is intended to provide a contextual basis for the World War One Medicine, Weimar & Nazi Germany and Cold War units studied at GCSE.

Students will examine some of the significant individuals, events and developments from across the Twentieth-century including the end of the British Empire, two World Wars, democracy and dictatorship in the inter-war years, the impact of the Holocaust, the post-war period and the legacy of Twentieth-century history.

To promote student curiosity and historical key skills, each key topic is organised by an enquiry question as follows:

Introduction: Was Britain a powerful country in 1900?

The First World War, 1914-18

The inter-war Years, 1920-1930

The Second World War, 1939-45

The Holocaust

The C20th; a century of creation?

Year 10-11

Students have the opportunity to study GCSE History, following the Pearson (Edexcel) specification.

Sixth Form

Students have the opportunity to study A-Level History, following the AQA specification.

Extra-Curricular Activities

The following two trips alternate yearly:

• Battlefields trip linked to the study of World War One and GCSE Historic Environment Unit on WW1 Medicine - Injuries,treatment and trenches on the British Sector of the Western Front, 1914-18.
• Visit to Auschwitz and Krakow, linked to the study of Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918-39.
• Previously organised trips likely to be offered include Hampton Court Palace, The Cold War Museum, British Army Museum and invitational Holocaust speakers.
• Visit to the Houses of Parliament, the National Archives, Westminster Abbey and University-led academic lectures/seminars (A-level).

Head of Department Name and Contact Details

Mrs E. Podmore-Taylor | epodmoretaylor@cedarsupper.co.uk