History
Who are we?
Head of Department – Ms C Thomas
Teachers – Mr G Deighton, Miss R Maqsud, Mr J Morris
“A generation which ignores history has no past and no future.”
Curriculum Intent
History provides the in-depth knowledge, skills, vision, and resilience needed to see how our subject shapes our local community, our country and the wider world.
History is dedicated to the empowerment of students, it provides knowledge, skills and qualities needed to make purposeful contributions in an ever-changing world.
History lets us think critically by asking challenging questions of the past therefore, building students ability to make informed discussions and decisive actions that shape the future.
Curriculum Map
Curriculum Map
Click here to view the department curriculum map.
What do we do?
As a forward thinking and innovative department we seek to challenge and enthuse students in their learning by providing a curriculum that inspires and shapes modern day thinking by placing value and relevance to the past.
This is achieved by enabling students to develop a sense of identity and cultural heritage through learning about the development of our local area, Britain, Europe and the rest of the world. Students also have the opportunity to study the changes in the economy, society, culture and political structure of Britain and the wider world from the Middle Ages to the twentieth century.
Through the teaching and learning of history, students develop the skills, concepts and knowledge necessary to understand and interpret the past, which in turn leads to them being well equipped to understand the workings of the modern world.
Year 10
In Year 10, students follow the WJEC Educas GCSE in History specification, which is assessed at the end of Year 11.
Unit 1: Studies in Depth
- British Study in Depth – The Elizabethan Age, 1558-1603
- Non-British Study in Depth – The USA: A Nation of Contrasts, 1910-1929
Unit 2: Studies in Breadth
- Period Study – The Development of Germany, 1919-1991
- Thematic Study – Changes in Entertainment and Leisure in Britain, c.500 to the present day
Year 11
In Year 11, students follow the AQA B Modern World History scheme of work, which is assessed at the end of Year 11.
Unit 1: International Relations
- Origins of the First World War
- Peacemaking 1918-1919 and the League of Nations
- Hitler’s foreign policy and the origins of the Second World War
Unit 2: Twentieth Century Depth Studies
- The Roaring 20’s; USA, 1919-1929
- Depression and the New Deal; USA, 1929-194
- War in Vietnam, 1954-1975
These units will be assessed by two written examinations and are worth 75% of the total marks.
In addition, students will complete a controlled assignment on the changing role and status of women in Britain since 1900.
The Changing Role and Status of Women in Britain since 1900.
This is worth 25% of the total marks.
A day in the life…
We actively encourage students to immerse themselves in history and have many trips and activities to help the lessons come to life, whether this be through the arts, outdoor learning or links with our Trust partners such as the University of Huddersfield or visiting trenches at Ypres and the Somme in Belgium. As a team we work rigorously to ensure all students can engage with history and show how even the events of the past are very real in today’s modern society.
What career?
Historians can enjoy rich, rewarding and varied careers in writing and publishing, research, teaching and consultancy, to name just a few.
Revision websites
bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/history
| Consistency |
Meaningful, engaging and thought-provoking curriculum providing challenge for all. Established and highly experienced team. Standardisation of lessons and assessment ensure steps to success. |
| Closing the Gaps |
Recognition of entitlement and enrichment to broaden the History curriculum with educational visits. Data analysis gives evidence for purposeful intervention at KS3/KS4. KS4 mentoring and coaching on exam skills and practice. |
| Community |
Curriculum designed on local and national demographics to promote inclusivity and diversity. Local links developed – such as the Windrush 75 project, Holocaust North Centre, Remembrance Day parade. Study of historical Huddersfield to gain insight into how society and industry has shaped our town. |
| Challenge |
Continued growth of a positive culture based on challenge and accessibility. The use of questioning to challenge and extend students learning. Challenge that encourages independent thinking and the spirit of inquiry in students. |