"A demanding and challenging subject that provides you with great preparation for Higher Education"

Why study History?

Henry Ford said "history is bunk" - but he would probably have changed his mind if he had seen this list of the benefits of studying history at Abbey:

It is relevant to our lives as, for good or ill, it has shaped the world we live in today.

History lets you learn how and why people behaved as they did, whether they are Al Capone, Benito Mussolini or John Lennon...

History helps you to develop the skills to look beyond the headlines, to ask questions properly, and to express your own opinions.

A lack of historical knowledge prevents people from truly understanding the world they live in - would Bush have gone into Iraq or Newcastle have appointed Keegan if they had studied history?

History helps you understand the origins of modern political and social problems.

It develops a range of analytical and communication skills that complement a wide range of other subject choices from English, languages, sciences and social sciences.

Top universities, in all subject areas, like students who have undergone the academic training provided by A-level History.

In addition, at A2, you will have the opportunity to devise and carry out a piece of independent research which reflects your interests and will act as a showcase of your abilities to prospective universities and employers.

Henry Ford's view of History was because he was taught about "Kings and Queens" which didn't tell him what he wanted to know about the past.  We will look at a range of topics that Henry would have found more interesting!

Preparation for Higher Education

The skills of critical analysis, interpretation, and evaluation you will learn at History A-level will be attractive to all universities. When applying for any degree course a background in History will be recognised as an indication of academic rigor and achievement. Degree courses in History are very popular and many students take advantage of the opportunity to continue studying a subject they enjoy or combining it in a multidiscipline degree with politics, languages, economics or in an allied discipline such as archaeology or European Studies.

Preparation for Work

There are many careers specific to History such as archaeology, the heritage industry, curating or even teaching. At the same time, high proportions of students move from a degree in History to careers in law, journalism, accountancy, business management and politics.

We want students who:

Have a real interest and enthusiasm for learning about the past.

Have enjoyed GCSE or Lower School History.

Are good at analysing and interpreting information.

Can communicate their ideas clearly.

Enjoy independent learning and reading.

Have plenty of determination and want to do well.

Nigel Walker
Head of History