You will investigate significant events, people, and changes across different periods, developing skills in analysing sources and interpretations. The course uses a wide range of primary sources, historical interpretations, and case studies to explore causes, consequences, change, continuity, similarity, and difference over time.

Typical topics include:

• One period study: Spain and the “New World” c1490–1555 (Excel) or Superpower Relations and the Cold War 1941–1991 (Discovery).
• One modern depth study: Weimar and Nazi Germany 1933–1939.
• One thematic study: Medicine in Britain c1250–present (Excel) or Crime and Punishment Through Time c1000–present (Discovery).
• One British depth study with historic environment: Elizabethan England c1568–1603 (Both academies); The British Sector of the Western Front 1914–18: injuries, treatment and the trenches (Excel); or Whitechapel c1870–c1900: crime, policing and the inner city (Discovery).

100% exam‑based (linear, all exams at the end of the course; no coursework): Three papers:

• Paper 1 (1hr 15mins, 52 marks) - Thematic Study and Historic Environment, plus your chosen depth study.
• Paper 2 (1hr 45mins, 64 marks) - Period Study and British Depth Study.
• Paper 3 (1hr 20mins, 52 marks) - Modern Depth Study.

A‑levels in History, A‑levels in Politics, A‑levels in Law, A‑levels in Sociology, or other humanities subjects. Vocational options include Level 3 BTEC Public Services or Level 3 BTEC Law. Many students progress to sixth‑form colleges (e.g., Stoke‑on‑Trent Sixth Form College) or apprenticeships where strong analytical and writing skills are valued. A good GCSE grade (4+ or 5+) supports entry to A‑levels and university degrees in history or allied subjects.

• Lawyer
• Solicitor
• Barrister
• Teacher
• Journalist
• Museum Curator
• Archivist
• Heritage Manager
• Civil Service / Fast Stream
• Political Researcher
• Marketing Professional
• Public Relations Officer
• Police Officer
• Analyst (e.g. intelligence, business)
• Media and Broadcasting Roles
• Tourism and Heritage Roles

History develops highly transferable skills such as research, critical analysis, argument construction, and communication - all of which are valued by employers across many sectors.

The course is engaging and story‑driven, bringing the past to life through fascinating events and people while making clear connections to current issues. It builds strong analytical and essay‑writing skills that benefit many other subjects. No prior detailed knowledge is needed, and it encourages debate and independent thinking.

Extremely useful - understanding history helps you make sense of today’s world, from politics and international relations to social change and cultural identity. Employers and universities highly value the skills developed: evaluating evidence, constructing balanced arguments, spotting bias, and communicating clearly. These are essential in law, journalism, management, policy‑making, and many professional roles. GCSE History fosters informed citizenship, critical thinking about news and media, and the ability to learn from the past - invaluable in an era of misinformation and rapid change. It opens doors to diverse, rewarding careers and supports lifelong learning about the world around us.