A-LEVEL HISTORY

In this examined unit, we study a broad sweep of Russian history, beginning with the final decades of Tsarist Russia, culminating in the Revolutions of 1917 and continuing on to the impact of Communism under its first three major leaders through to 1964. We study the nature of a traditional hereditary monarchy and the struggles that the last three Tsars had in seeking to modernise Russia’s backward economy and society, while trying also to protect their own authority. We look at the rise of revolutionary opposition groups and their treatment by the Tsars; Russia’s belated attempts to modernise both the countryside (emancipation of the serfs) and industry; and the final downfall of the Romanov dynasty in the era of Nicholas II, Rasputin and the First World War. We then look at the reforms and policies of Lenin, Stalin and Khrushchev and their transformation of the Soviet Union through to 1964. This unit is tested by a three-part exam at the end of the two years, which accounts for 40% of your total A level mark.

The second examined unit is an in-depth study of a shorter period of history. This is our British history topic, where we focus on modern politics, economy and society since World War Two. The unit covers all the major political leaders of the era, from Churchill and Macmillan in the early years, through to the striking and contentious era of Thatcher and the more recent reforms and controversies of the Blair governments. As well as looking at political developments over the period, we also focus on the fluctuating fortunes of the British economy; Britain’s contentious relationship with Europe; and the radical social changes of the 1960s and beyond. This unit is also tested by a three-part exam at the end of the two years, which accounts for 40% of your total A level mark.

This is a coursework unit, which students prepare and submit during the second year of the course. Students are taught a short, introductory history of the USA in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. They then have the freedom to select a topic from this period, which they independently research, leading to the production of a 3,500-word essay. The topic should focus on an area of historical controversy and part of the assessment of the coursework is focused on the use and evaluation of various different types of historical source – both primary and secondary. Coursework accounts for 20% of the total A level assessment.

A very popular ‘perk’ of studying History at d’Overbroeck’s is the opportunity to take part in an overseas trip during the course of your two-year study – usually to one of the countries being studied during the course. In the past our visits have included Russia (Moscow and St Petersburg), the USA (Washington and New York), Berlin and Krakow (including Auschwitz).