A Level

A Level:

Our A Level Programme explores a number of aspects of 20^th Century history in much greater depth, equipping students with a range of skills useful in the continued study of History at degree level, or across a range of other academic subjects. Students will develop their ability to evaluate information and interpretations from a wide range of opinions and historical arguments. They will also find out a lot more about the political, economic and social histories of the countries studied.

• AS Unit 1: Germany 1918-45
  • We explore the challenges facing Germany as it adapted to a democratic system of government after defeat in the First World War. We explore the reasons why this period of democracy ultimately ended in failure and the introduction of an era of Nazi rule. We explore the impact of ‘Hitler’s Germany’ on different social groups within the country, as well as the political, social and economic changes which the Nazis brought to Germany during this period. This unit invites students to explore a range of historians’ opinions and interpretations and to make critical evaluations.

• AS Unit 2: Russia 1914-41
  • This unit explores the overthrow of the Tsar in early 1917 and how the Provisional Government was itself overthrown in a Bolshevik revolution in October 1917. We look at the first 25 years of Communist rule in the USSR, and the changes which affected the Russian people during that time. This unit develops students’ understanding of different political ideologies, as well as their understanding of the nature and use of power by political leaders.

• A2 Unit 1: Clash of Ideologies 1900-2000
  • This unit develops the learning of AS Unit 2 and explores the USSR’s relationship with Western Europe from the Revolution in 1917 to the collapse of Communist rule in 1991. The priorities of the different leaders of the USSR are explored, along with debates around the motivation behind their foreign policy decisions at different times. We also explore the policies and actions of the Western powers towards the Soviet Union during this period.

• A2 Unit 2: Partition of Ireland 1900-1925
  • The years between 1900 and 1925 saw enormous upheaval in Ireland and by the end of this period the country had been separated in a process of partition which continues to the present day. This unit explores the personalities, politics and events of these years in depth, analysing a wide range of historical arguments and viewpoints, with a particular emphasis on source investigation.