CHRISTOPHER WHITEHEAD
LANGUAGE COLLEGE AND SIXTH FORM
WELCOME TO CWLC SIXTH FORM!
NIAMH WEBB | SIXTH FORM STUDENT
I chose History because I love the modules that were offered, particularly the coursework and British history but I enjoy the complexity of the Russian topic. In terms of Britain and Russia, I have enjoyed learning about the continuity and change element of British politics and learning about the tumultuous events in Russia in the early 20th century. I have certainly developed my analytical skills because of the source and interpretation work that History offers and also my essay writing skills using the PEACE format. Next year, I am hoping to study History and English Literature at the University of Birmingham and the do a PGCE to become a History teacher. I am so grateful to all of the staff in the History department at CWLC for being so supportive and approachable during the course so far.
WHY CHOOSE A-LEVEL HISTORY?
- Industrialisation and the People: Britian c1783-1885
- Revolution and Dictatorship in Russia: 1917 – 1953
- Independent Study – c3500 words investigating Irish History from 1893-1998 and analysing the causes of instability that dominated the island of Ireland
WHY STUDY A-LEVEL HISTORY AT CWLC?
The History department has achieved strong results from the inception of the sixth form at CWLC. The course is taught by experienced members of staff who understand the nuances of how to do well at A-Level. History is a facilitating subject which gives students grounding in core skills of analysis and evaluation as well as providing numerous opportunities for discussions.
The department liaises with the Holocaust centre to offer some students an opportunity to take part in the ‘Lessons from Auschwitz’ programme and regular ‘Impetus programmes’ exist which often incorporate a plethora of historical debates.
We are proud of our results with 2022 seeing 47% of our students achieving an A*/A, and we believe that our modules give students a foundation to explore and understand the world that we live in. The British module exploring the foundations of the state and people power. The Russian component investigates how a vast autocratic Empire of 300 years became the first Communist country in the world. Our independent study provides great context in understanding the ‘Nothern Irish’ border issue since leaving the EU.
WHAT COULD YOU DO NEXT?
A Level History is a well-regarded subject by all universities. Many students go on to pursue the subject at degree level and beyond and it is a subject in high demand due to the analytical skills developed. It is particularly useful for those who wish to explore a career in Law, Politics, education, English, journalism, medicine, history and archaeology.
We are extremely proud of our exam results and delighted that in 2022 we had our first student going to read history at Cambridge.