History
Year 7
In Year 7 the students study two National Curriculum topics. An introductory unit called Investigating History and a longer study entitled Medieval Realms.
Investigating History involves students trying their hand at solving historical mysteries. Students try and solve the grisly murder of the Ice Man and the Bog Man – understanding the society and culture of Europe 3000 years ago.
Medieval Realms is a study of the development of the English monarchy and society in the Middle Ages. Covering a long span of time, students will gain an understanding of the problems of government in the middle ages, the importance of religion and farming, the growth of towns and cities, warfare, heraldry and key political developments - the Peasants’ Revolt, Black Death, 100 years war and Magna Carta.
Year 8
In Y8 There are two main topics - The Making of the United Kingdom 1485 to 1750 and the French Revolution.
The former continues the chronological survey of British history which was begun in Year 7 with a study of the Middle Ages. The first unit covers focuses upon the way the United Kingdom evolved from post medieval monarchy to constitutional monarchy.
In understanding History, students need to recognise that there are certain key moments; the French Revolution is one such key turning point in European history. The concept of a 'turning point' is studied and we consider the impact of the French Revolution both in France and beyond.
Year 9
There are two units in Year 9.
The first unit covers Great Britain from 1750 to 1900, highlighting the development of industrial Great Britain and the Empire. Economic and social aspects are dealt with and students are encouraged to evaluate the reasons for change in the period. Topics covered include the agricultural revolution, the slave trade, population growth and industrial expansion.
The second unit is entitled Great Britain in the Twentieth Century. The unit encourages students to locate Great Britain and its changing position throughout the twentieth century. Key events which have helped to shape the world that students now inhabit are studied, such as the First World War and the post war era.
