From years 9-11 pupils complete their History GCSE under the OCR examination board. Pupils study Modern World History B.

Year 9

During year 9, students prepare for their Controlled Assessment. Pupils use their knowledge and skills developed across the study to complete a 2,000 word essay which is submitted as 25% of their overall GCSE Grade. The focus of the topics is Twentieth Century conflicts and examines specifically the role of key individuals in the shaping of history. There is much more focus on the development of skills this year and students are introduced to much more complex historical evidence. Analysis, cross reference, evaluation and interpretation are skills very much fostered for examination.

Year 10

During year 10, students prepare for their first History GCSE exam. They study Britain 1906-1918 focusing on the development of the Liberal Welfare Reforms, the campaign for the vote and the home front during World War One. Pupils are presented with a variety of learning experiences that allow them to develop their depth of knowledge and understanding, thinking skills in a variety of creative ways. This is consolidated through the development of their source analysis skills which again, is very much a focus in their exam.

Year 11

In their final year of the GCSE studies, students complete their final exam which constitutes 45 % of their overall GCSE grade. They study International Relations 1918-45 which includes the post war peace treaties, the League of Nations and Hitler’s aggressive foreign policy. Students also study a depth study on Nazi Germany. The focus for success in this exam is less on source skills and more on a depth of knowledge and understanding. The exam is a 2 hour paper and tests the ability to describe, explain and develop.