History

In the first stage (IAS / Year 12), students study a detailed history depth unit - choosing one period or country-based option (e.g. France in Revolution 1774-1799; Russia 1881-1917; Germany 1918-1945; or Britain 1964-1990). This unit develops understanding of significant historical change, political, social and economic transformations and historiographical debate.

In the second stage (IA2 / Year 13), learning expands to broader thematic and comparative studies. Students examine themes such as war and diplomacy, superpower relations, civil rights, global conflicts or international systems - enabling them to understand history on a broader canvas, draw connections across periods and regions, and appreciate the complexity of global historical developments.

• Critical thinking and source-evaluation
• Evidence-based argumentation and essay-writing
• Assessing differing historical interpretations and evaluating reliability of sources
• Synthesizing information across events and themes
• Constructing coherent, well-supported historical arguments
• Research, analysis, comparative thinking, structured writing and conceptual understanding

The IAL History qualification comprises four externally assessed units.

IAS qualification awarded on completion of Units 1 and 2. Full IAL awarded when all four units are completed. No coursework - all work is externally examined.

• History, International Relations, Politics, Sociology, Law, Humanities, Cultural Studies degrees
• Social Sciences, Anthropology, Archaeology, Global Studies, Development Studies
• Journalism, media, public policy, diplomacy, heritage, archival work, civil service, law, education and research
• Interdisciplinary pathways where historical perspective, evidence-based analysis, and argumentation are valued