History (Russia & China)

5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above

GCSE English Language at grade 5, or English Language grade 4 plus English Literature grade 5

GCSE History at grade 5 or above (if taken)

GCSE Maths at grade 3 or above

Students who have not studied GCSE History must demonstrate strong literacy skills in essay‑based subjects.

year1

You will study the rise of Communism in Russia and China, exploring themes including:

Government and political systems

Economic development

Methods of control

Impact on society

You will also develop source analysis skills and engage with different historical interpretations.

year2

You will study the experience of warfare in Britain over 150 years, including:

The French Wars (from c.1793)

The Crimean War

The Second Boer War

The First World War

skillsDeveloped

Analytical and critical thinking

Essay writing and structured argument

Source evaluation

Research and interpretation skills

Teaching is delivered through a mix of individual and group work, encouraging students to take responsibility for their learning.

You will engage with historical sources, discussions and independent study to deepen your understanding.

Assessment includes:

Three written exams

Non‑Exam Assessment (NEA) – a 3,000–4,000 word essay worth 20% of the A Level

Regular feedback supports development of essay writing and analytical skills.

Exam board textbooks

Learning Resource Centre with books and academic journals

Additional support materials for independent study

A range of optional trips are available as part of the course:

Day visits may cost around £30

Overseas trips may cost around £350

Students are also recommended to purchase revision guides to support their study.

All visits are optional.

Students choose one History pathway only:

Early Modern World

Modern World – Communist States

Modern World – Democracies in Change

You cannot take more than one History pathway simultaneously.

A Level History supports progression into:

University degrees (e.g. History, Politics, Law, Humanities)

Apprenticeships and careers requiring strong analytical and communication skills

The course develops transferable skills valued in a wide range of professions.

Students can take part in a range of enrichment activities, including:

Day visits to course‑related sites (e.g. Oxford, Tintern Abbey, SS Great Britain)

Residential visits to locations such as the battlefields of Belgium and Edinburgh

University conferences to support progression to higher education

These activities enhance classroom learning and provide real‑world historical context.