There are no formal entry requirements for studying History A Level at Runnymede, though we do like students to have taken an IGCSE in History and to have passed with a grade C or above.
The most important requirements are to have a keen interest in the subject and to be willing to work hard.
There are many reasons for taking History at A Level.
The subject will teach you how to research, to think critically and to write persuasively, skills that will be useful at university and in the world of work.
It will provide you with an understanding of aspects of modern history, helping you understand the world in which you live.
History can complement other subjects such as English Literature, Geography and Economics. Equally, it can be used to offer breadth to your A Level choices in contrast to Mathematics or the Sciences.
History is regarded by universities as a challenging and worthwhile A Level, and it links to many potential degree courses such as Law, PPE, European Studies and International Relations.
There are four modules in the current A Level:
Aside from the knowledge for each module, you will learn important skills: to research, to debate, to construct and write persuasive essays and how to handle source material. For the coursework module you will also learn about historiography.
Students will be assessed throughout the course through written assignments, presentations, seminars, group work and tests.
The A Level assessment will take the form of three exam papers taken at the end of Year 13 and a coursework assignment:
History is highly regarded by admissions tutors and by the most prestigious universities in the UK, USA, Spain and Europe. Some choose History because it will help gain access to degrees such as History, PPE, Politics, International Relations, European Studies, Law, Business and Management, Economics, English or Modern Languages.
Others follow it because it can complement their other A Level subjects, showing a breadth and variety in their abilities that will enhance their university application, say if they wish to pursue a career in medicine, science, engineering or business.
A History degree is also highly valued by employers who regard those who see the subject as providing students with many of the skills that are prized in the world of work. Skills such as clear and fluent communication, the ability to sift through and then evaluate evidence and opinions and to reach substantiated conclusions are of particular value in today’s post-truth world.
History is a great route into a whole host of careers involving business, management, finance and investment, marketing, personnel, government and the civil service, diplomacy, international relations, politics, development and environmental studies, law, journalism, media, non-governmental organisations and charities, publishing, research, advertising, education, academia and many other careers.