History
History is an academically rigorous subject which equips students with a strong knowledge of the past, as well as many transferable skills which are vital to complement their other academic studies and become well rounded pupils.
Beyond this though, History is inherently fascinating and students will be exposed to a broad range of time periods, people and events at Key Stages 3, 4 and 5.
Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 | core subject
In the first three years, pupils gain a good understanding of the key skills of the subject, for example, essay writing, analysing primary and secondary sources; research skills. The Year 7 syllabus focuses on Medieval Realms to include key events such as the Battle of Hastings, the Magna Carta, the Black Death and the Peasants’ Revolt. In Year 8, this foundation is built upon to examine the Tudor dynasty and the transition to Stuart rule. In Year 9, students move into the twentieth century and study the First World War and the Russian Revolution, as well as associated IGCSE examination skills in preparation for Year 10.
Year 10 and 11, IGCSE | option subject
For IGCSE although History is an option subject, all pupils are strongly encouraged to continue their study of one humanities subject, either History or Geography.
By studying IGCSE History, pupils will expand on their understanding of the subject covered from Years 7 to 9 and critically investigate events by utilising a wide variety of subject specific skills. In analysis of these events, pupils develop a questioning mind to consider the consequences of decisions made as well as the validity of the sources used. The course focuses on 20th century history, covering wars fought during this time and their geopolitical effects, as well as social change within several countries. Topic areas include Russia from 1914-24, Germany from 1918-45, the USA from 1945-74 and changes to medicine from 1848-1948.
IGCSE REQUIREMENTS
– There are no specific academic requirements.
EXAMINATION BOARD
– Edexcel IGCSE 4HI1 History
Sixth Form, A-Level | option subject
History at A-Level represents the opportunity to study the past but also understand the present world. As well as learning about significant historical events and their social, political and economic context, History provides the opportunity to develop a range of valuable skills. The course comprising topics ranging from Tudor England and an in-depth study of historical interpretations, to Luther’s challenge to the Catholic Church, to race relations in US society. Through an independently researched assignment, students will develop skills in the analysis and evaluation of interpretations of history in a chosen question. Examinations are taken at the end of Upper Sixth, with coursework being completed by February half term in Upper Sixth.
A-LEVEL REQUIREMENTS
– History at (I)GCSE is preferred, although not mandatory.
EXAMINATION BOARD
– Edexcel A-Level 9HI0 History
John Lyon Success
– 87% of A-Level students gained A*-B grades.
– 55% of IGCSE pupils achieved a 9 or 8 grade.
– Matthew McClymont (2019) left John Lyon to read History at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London.
Outside the Classroom
John Lyon’s extensive list of extra-curricular activities includes many options for pupils who enjoy History Excellence Society and Philosophy Club. Previous school trips have included a tour of Belgium and France visiting the battlefields of the First World War; travelling to Wittenberg and Berlin to complement the students’ study of the German Reformation and the rise of the Nazi Party; a range of day long excursions to the Imperial War Museums (Duxford and London), Warwick castle and Rochester castle and cathedral to name just a few.
Beyond School
A History qualification will equip pupils with transferable skills that are useful for further study and employment. Comprehending source skills of inference, cross referencing and utility, as well as the ability to confidently construct a well-argued and cogent essay, are disciplines that lend themselves to a range of subjects and careers. Past pupils have progressed to degree level study of History, Politics, International Relations, PPE, Economics and Law.
