History

Studying History

History in the Lower School spans the centuries from medieval England to twentieth century Europe. Our goal is to equip pupils with the tools they need to become competent historians. Hence they are immediately introduced to the most essential skills: chronology and the evaluation of evidence and sources.

History in First Year

The course begins with an introduction to the nature of evidence, both primary and secondary, and introduces pupils to the importance of studying History and to the role of the historian. Pupils study Medieval Life in England: the events of 1066, such as the Battles of Hastings and Stamford Bridge, followed by the development of Norman England. Castles, the Feudal System, the Black Death, Peasants' Revolt and role of the Medieval church are all taken into consideration. As part of the first year trip to Castleton, children will study local castles and write a project. The final term focuses on the Hundred Years War, the Renaissance, the Crusades and events leading up to the Tudor period. A further study trip will take place in the Spring Term to Leeds Armoury or to Conway Castle and coursework will be based upon information found during the day.

History in Second Year

Pupils in Second Year follow the history of the United Kingdom from the sixteenth to the eighteenth centuries. We concentrate at first upon the political development of the country, examining changes in the power of crown and parliament from the Reformation to the execution of Charles I. Elements of social history are also studied, including witchcraft, plague and fire. The course then moves forward to the Industrial Revolution, the British Empire and the Slave Trade. A structured coursework assignment is based upon an important development or personality from this period. Towards the end of the year, the emphasis is on local history. A trip to Quarry Bank Mill ties in with the study of Industrial Britain.

History in Third Year

We begin Third Year with an analysis of the First World War, including causes, course and social impact. The Alliance system, trench life and warfare, the Middle Eastern campaign and the legacy of the war are among events studied. Subsequently, our attention turns to the causes and events of the Second World War. We take a brief look at Dunkirk, women in the war and evacuation. An introduction to the history of the Soviet Union is also undertaken. At all times pupils are encouraged to find local and family links with the century’s conflicts.

Our course ends in the summer with two in-depth studies: the causes and events of the Holocaust and the Post-war world. In this newly developed unit, we take the opportunity to study the Cold War in depth, which provides a valuable foundation for the GCSE course.

Trips

Pupils from the Lower School are encouraged to participate in trips organised by the department. Third Year pupils regularly participate in our trips to the Battlefields in Belgium and France which take place each October half term. At Easter, a major trip takes place. Destinations vary, having previously included the USA, Russia and Germany and Central Europe. Trips for younger pupils in First and Second Year are mainly excursions to local sites of interest such as local castles and museums.