Be a part of the thriving, lively and successful department and learn about events that have shaped the world you live in and the people and circumstances that shaped these events.

A Level History is a fascinating and challenging subject. You will be looking at massive changes and analysing why they happened. It is not just an account of the past but an investigation of why things happened the way they did. If you have an enquiring mind and enjoy argument this is the subject for you.

Where does an A level History course lead?

This is a very versatile subject. Of course, you can, and we hope you will, progress to a History or a History related degree (for example Politics, Archaeology or American Studies). Such a degree can lead to career opportunities that are broader than you may think; for example, law, television, research, politics, journalism, publishing, business and management – the list is endless!

However, for many students, their final career may not be directly related to their degree (this goes for most subjects) and what will matter is the quality of your degree and the fact that History is a highly valued and respected subject because of the skills it develops.

Regardless of your future career, an interest in History demonstrates to a future employer that you are open-minded, can make decisions based on evidence, and are interested in the world around you. You will also develop transferable skills such as analysis, evaluation, organisation and presentation of information orally and in written form.

Course Entry Requirements

GCSE grade 5 in History or Humanities (if studied) and GCSE grade 5 in English Language.

History Course Leaflet

Exam board course specification

History Alumni

Samuel Puxley – English Literature and History, Durham University

History News

Washington D.C. Trip 2019

History trip to Berlin

History and Politics students head to Washington DC

What Our Students Say

I enjoy Carmel as it’s a great learning environment where I feel very comfortable to ask a question or speak out if I am in need of help from a teacher. I particularly enjoy History as I find the course content extremely engaging and it has something to interest everyone. For example, in light of Brexit, it’s been really enlightening to learn about the development of our democracy from the 19th century onwards.

Furthermore, whilst on the History and Politics Washington trip, it was fascinating to see where all the great anti-war protests and civil rights marches had taken place. The Washington trip itself was a brilliant experience and it was great to meet other students who were passionate about American history, politics and society.

Maya Ellis