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Studying History at Queensmead is an exciting way to find out more about the world we live in today. Students follow the National Curriculum, covering a range of key topics throughout Year 7 and Year 8. In Year 9, students focus on the transition towards studying topics in greater depth at GCSE.

Classroom full of children

You Will Cover

Year 7

In Year 7, students begin by finding out more about ‘Who is Britain?’ The aim of this unit is to find out more about the different people who have come to Britain over the period 4000BC to the present day. Thereafter, students cover British history between 43AD and c.1700. Particular areas of study include asking ourselves ‘Who was the best king?’ in medieval Britain and examining the reasons for William the Conqueror’s victory at the Battle of Hastings.

Year 8

In Year 8, students will discover a range of important individuals from the 18th and 19th centuries, asking themselves ‘Who is the greatest Briton?’ Students are encouraged to use historical criteria to form an overall judgement about this fascinating and controversial question. Thereafter, students are engaged by a course which covers both the positive and negative aspects of the British Empire. The year is concluded by in- depth studies into the causes of World War I and an evaluation of key turning points during the 20th century.

Year 9

In Year 9, students begin to prepare for GCSE History by studying a range of transition topics. They study Henry VIII’s relationship with his key ministers, the causes and consequences of the Irish Potato Famine and an in-depth analysis of the reasons behind Germany’s defeat in WW1. These subjects are designed to prepare students for the rigours of the GCSE as well as being engaging and thought-provoking topics. Students then begin to look at the reign of Elizabeth I, including the many numerous plots against her and the defeat of the Spanish Armada.