History teaches students to be analytical, to make evidence-based judgements and to communicate effectively.
We have a challenging and diverse curriculum. For example, we teach colonialism and explore the links between Bristol and the Slave Trade in KS3. Students in Year 8 attend a workshop at the M Shed, where they are able to handle artefacts linked to Bristol and slavery. Students are encouraged to question the traditional historical narrative and consider the validity of different interpretations. We have close links with the Politics Department and consider the impact that History has in explaining the modern context.
We use a wide range of teaching and learning methods, including discussion, debate, role play, extended writing tasks, source analysis and thinking skills. Students also use iPad technology, historical books, text books and DVDs to enhance learning.
History is compulsory for Years 7 to 9 and can be taken as a GCSE option in Year 10.
Find out more about the AQA GCSE in History.
Enrichment and extra-curricular
We take our students to many sites of historical relevance including Warwick Castle and to museums including the Living Museum in Dudley to enhance what they learn in the classroom. There are also opportunities to visit the French battlefields and the historic city of Berlin.
We are a member of the Historical Association and encourage students at GCSE and in the Sixth Form to attend lectures run by the Bristol branch. Sixth Form students are encouraged to take part in the Great Debate, this is an annual national public speaking competition run by the Historical Association.
During term time we also run a weekly History Film Club during the lunch hour.