History
Aims of the subject
To learn about Britain and the wider world, exploring ways in which the past has shaped identities, cultures and values today. To inspire a passion for our subject and a deep understanding of how the past is essential for an understanding of the present and future. This will be achieved through an enjoyment of enquiry and through students developing an historical perspective and a contextual framework to help make sense of the past.
| Year | What will I learn? | What will I do? |
| 7 | Term 1:
The Battle of Hastings, 1066 An introduction to Edward the Confessor and how the lack of an heir to the throne caused the succession crisis of 1066, focussing on the Battle of Stamford bridge and the reasons for Norman victory in the Battle of Hastings. How the Normans changed England after 1066 An analysis of the extent of change in various aspects of life in England after the Norman Conquest of 1066. Religion in Medieval Life An introduction to the role and power of the Church in Medieval England.
Term 2: King John, 1166-1216 Analysis of historical interpretations relating to the rule of King John. The Black Death, 1347-1351 & The Peasants’ Revolt, 1381 A study of the role of peasants in Medieval England and how much the Black Death and Peasants’ Revolt changed the lives of “ordinary” people.
Term 3: Henry VIII & the Reformation, 1509-1547 Analysis of the role of Henry in shaping England, with a specific focus on the Reformation and analysis of historical sources relating to Henry VIII. Tudor Religious Changes in the 16th Century The role of successive Tudor monarchs in shaping religion in the 16th century, analysing the extent and pace of change. English Civil War, 1642-1651 A study of the causes and events of the English Civil War, Oliver Cromwell and the Restoration of the Monarchy.
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Explain the succession crisis of 1066. Understand the significance of the battle of Stamford Bridge and how it played a role in the Battle of Hastings. Prioritise the reasons for Norman victory in 1066. Explain William’s problems when he became king. Study the effectiveness of castles in the short and long term. Explain how the Feudal System and Domesday Book helped William control England. Consider the extent and pace of Norman changes. Study the role of the Church in Medieval England.
Study the problems of King John’s reign. Explain the significance of the Magna Carta. Put King John on trial using a range of historical sources and interpretations to come to a substantiated judgement. Explain the significance of the Black Death and the Peasants’ Revolt in the development of the lives of peasants.
Study the significance of the War of the Roses. Come to a judgement on the reign of Henry VIII, analysing the usefulness of historical sources. Explain the significance of the Reformation of the Church. Understand the Tudor “Religious Roller-coaster” and how the religious changes associated with successive monarchs impacted on England. Study the causes, events and consequences of the English Civil War, with a particular focus on why Parliament were able to defeat the Royalists and the impact of Puritan rule on England. |
| 8 | Term 1:
Change & Continuity, 1750-1900 An overview of the major changes in Britain in the years 1750-1900. Development of the British Empire A study of the growth of the Empire, the “Jewell in the Crown” of India and varying interpretations of the British Empire. The International Slave Trade A study of conditions, including the Middle Passage, Auctions and Plantations, Rebellion and Campaigners and the Importance of Religion in the increasing protest against the Slave Trade.
Term 2: Significance of the Industrial Revolution A focus of the impact of the Industrial Revolution on the development of Wigan. World War One, 1914-1918 An investigation into the long & short term causes of war and the battles, tactics and conditions specific to World War One.
Term 3: The Inter-War Years & the Rise of Hitler, 1919-1939 International relations in the years after World War One, the Rise of Nazi Germany and the Road to World War Two. The Holocaust, 1938-1945 A study of the build-up of persecution of the Jews in Nazi Germany and the events of the Holocaust during World War Two. |
Evaluate the extent and pace of change in the industrial era. Study the origins of and reasons for the British Empire. Analyse how Britain was able to extend her empire and study in depth the role of India – the “Jewell in the Crown”. Explain why protest against the international slave trade grew, explaining the role of slave conditions, uprisings, campaigners and religion.
Study the Agricultural Revolution followed by the growth of towns in Industrial England, especially Wigan. Carry out a local study analysing the impact of the Industrial Revolution on Wigan with a focus on transport, population and working conditions. Explain the long and short term causes of World War One, analysing historical sources relating to battles, tactics and conditions.
Judge to what extent there was an “uneasy peace” after World War One and the impact of the peace settlement on international relations. Explain the rise of Hitler and the Nazis in Germany and the causes of World War Two. Study the build-up of hatred against the Jews in Germany and construct an historical narrative of the Holocaust. |
| 9 | Term 1:
The Fight for Women’s Suffrage in the Early 20th Century Historical Research Enquiry into the role of the Suffragettes in campaigning for the vote. War & the Transformation of British Society, 1931-1945 A study of the impact of the depression on Britain, the experience of Britain during World War Two and the Home Front. Term 2: Civil Rights in the USA in the 20th Century A study of how an emboldened Civil Rights Movement developed in the USA after World War Two and the struggle for equality in the 1950s, 60s and 70s. Term 3: A study of crime, law enforcement and punishment in the years c1000-c1500 |
Historical Research Enquiry into the role of Suffragettes. Study the impact of the depression on Britain the 1930s. Study the role of Churchill, analysing a range of historical interpretations. Explain the experience of Britain at war in Europe and on the Home Front, analysing relating historical sources. Explain how a Civil Rights Movement in the USA grew after World War Two. Study Martin Luther King and the role of peaceful and direct action. Study the impact of successive US Presidents on the lives of Black Americans. |
Extra-curricular opportunities
Historical Research Enquiries embedded within the curriculum. History Film Club. National trips and engagement with our rich, local history.
How you can support your child’s progress:
We strongly encourage all parents to speak with students about their history lessons and help instil a passion for history. Also, through discussions about current affairs, you will find students linking to their experiences of history in the classroom. Where possible, please accompany students to historical sites so they can broaden their experiences of history.
Useful websites:
