History A2 at Swinton Academy
Wherever possible you are given time to undertake active learning as well as independent thinking.
Students receive immediate and detailed evaluation of their work.
Progress is monitored at specific points throughout the academic year, targets are reviewed and appropriate action plans made for future study.
The A2 course is comprised of a coursework unit, reducing the pressure in terms of exams at the end of the year.
The coursework units require students to choose their own area of study. This ensures that the course is relevant, interesting and enjoyable!! (Hopefully!!)
Students are invited to attend revision conferences which reinforce & consolidate subject knowledge as well as providing strategies & techniques to aid effective revision.
We as a Faculty, pride ourselves in the success of our students. 100% pass rates at A2 have been achieved in the last 11 years. In addition, we continue to work hard with the students to add value to their performance.
Swinton’s historians develop into informed citizens with an awareness of the world around them.
The high numbers of students going on to read History at University is a reflection of the good practice carried out at SCS.
The methods of study at Advanced Level include:
Class lessons and discussions
Essay writing and interpretation of evidence
The department follows the Edexcel AS/A2 specifications. The aims of the course are to enable students to:
Develop an interest and enthusiasm for history;
Develop understanding of historical terms and concepts;
Explore the significance of events, individuals and issues in history;
Understand the nature of historical evidence and the methods used by historians;
Develop an understanding of how the past has been interpreted and represented;
Acquire and communicate knowledge and understanding of periods of history.
Unit 3 - Kaiser to Führer: Germany 1900 -1945
Unit 4 - Historical Enquiry: 1689-1769 - Coursework (20%)
AS Level History.
A good GCSE grade is recommended before embarking on Advanced Level study, although those who have not studied History in Years 10 and 11 are welcome with other good GCSE grades.
Y13 – Unit 3, 2hr Examination at the end of Y13, 30% of final A2 grade, Unit 4 20% of final grade.
The History Department has enjoyed a very good pass rate at Advanced Level in recent years with a significant number of students going on to read History at University.
The AS and A2 specification in History provides the basis for a coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study for all candidates whether they progress to further in the subject or not. The course also provides opportunities for students to generate and develop evidence for the assessment of Key Skills.
A qualification in History equips students with valuable skills which have a wide application and are attractive to employers.
“Studying history at Swinton has equipped me with the skills necessary to study at university. The style of teaching in particular, mirrors that of university tutors. Unlike my fellow students I was unfazed by the group discussions and presentations that we were assessed on as it was something that was always actively encouraged in my A Level studies. I also felt that the support I received from the history staff during my time at SCS was second to none and I have sought their advice on several occasions since.”
Elouise Henderson – SCS 1997 – 2004
History Graduate – Sheffield Hallam University
“Studying history has greatly enhanced my understanding of the present. History is not simply about dates, wars and some kings and queens! Reading history widens horizons and allows students to look at a broad range of issues such as Politics, Philosophy, Economics and Sociology – all are related to the study of history which makes the subject both interesting and enjoyable. Similarly, the skills I have developed whilst studying history are also valuable and transferable – being able to analyse, interpret, evaluate, communicate and both apply and deploy knowledge. These are important skills which can be applied to a range of other subjects and scenarios. They are also recognised and highly regarded by a host of potential employers. There is no doubt the support, guidance and advice I received from the History staff at Swinton was greatly beneficial and helped set me on the way to a career in this field.”
Andrew Pendlebury – SCS 1995-2002
First Class (Hons) History - University of Leicester
MA History - University of Sussex
To find out more about this qualification contact Swinton Community School on 01709 570586 or email email@example.com
How to apply
You can apply for this course through UCAS Progress. Add this course to your favourites so you can start making an application.