What is this subject about?

The course explores the causes and impact of new political, religious and scientific ideas which challenged established ways of thinking and acting across Britain, Europe and America in the sixteenth, seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. It considers the rise and fall of royal power and changes in religion in early modern English society, and the emergence of the Nation State. It also investigates the witch craze in England, Europe and North America up to the eighteenth century. By studying History you learn about influential people and events in the past that have shaped the world in important ways, as well as the political and cultural ideas and religious beliefs that have shaped their decisions and actions.

What will I study in over the two years?

In the first year you will study the reign of Henry VIII and his children, Edward VI, Mary I and Elizabeth I. You will also look in depth at the causes of the German Reformation, the ideas of Luther and expansion of Lutheranism, 1517-1555.

In the second year you will study the witch craze in Britain, Europe and North America, c.1580–c.1750, considering the reasons for widespread belief in witches and the nature of witchcraft accusations as well as the growth of skepticism due to scientific discoveries and scandalous frauds that caused people to question long held fears. For coursework you will research different interpretations of Oliver Cromwell, who helped make England a Republic and ruled as Lord Protector from 1653 to 1658 after the execution of King Charles I.

How is the course assessed?


What skills will I need and develop in this course?

A wide range of skills are developed during the study of history including processing and analysing information, evaluating evidence, research and investigation. You will learn to argue effectively and intelligently, while empathising with and understanding the context of the lives of people in the past. You also learn about how to find things outand how to evaluate and criticise arguments, interpretations and ideas.




Entry Requirements

What are the formal entry requirements for this course?


• Grade 4 in GCSE English Language
• Grade 4 in GCSE History


Extra Support

What extra support/enrichment activities are on offer?


There are opportunities for workshops at Hampton Court and London conference and museum visits.

Subject combination advice

Subject combination advice:

History is a firm foundation for many academic courses and career choices. Due to its strong academic base and broad skills, it works with many subjects. There are no prohibited combinations, but it combines particularly well with English, Politics, Economics, Classics, Philosophy, Sociology and Modern Languages.