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History: Early Modern A Level (Strode)

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Course Type
School Leavers
Subject Area
A Levels, History
Location
Strode College
Start date
02/09/2026

Course Overview

Studying History provides an insight into how historians investigate and interpret the past, equipping you with the tools to evaluate historical and contemporary sources for reliability, utility and perspective.

Our modern History pathway focuses on the development of the modern world through three major themes: the Later Tudors, the Cold War in Asia, and Civil Rights in the USA. You will explore major political, social, and international changes while developing skills of historical analysis, critical thinking and essay writing.

This course enables you to develop the skills of a working historian through the key historical concepts of change, continuity, causation, consequence, significance and historical interpretations.

In the second year, you will also complete an independent coursework module on a topic of your choice, where you will engage directly with differing historians’ views.

Beyond the classroom, students are encouraged to take part in community outreach and may be offered the opportunity to participate in enrichment visits, including university taster days and residential trips abroad.

Topics may include:

  • The Later Tudors, 1547-1603: a study of Edward VI, Mary I, and Elizabeth I, with a focus on religious change, rebellion, foreign policy, and the management of government and parliament.
  • The Cold War in Asia, 1945-1993: an in-depth look at American foreign policy in Korea, Vietname and Cambodia, as well as the global context and consequences of Cold War conflict in the region.
  • Civil Rights in the USA, 1865-1992: a thematic study of the African American struggle for civil rights across over a century, as well as developments in Native American, women’s, and labour rights.

Assessment Methods

You will be assessed through three written examinations at the end of your second year: British period study and enquiry (Tudors), Non-British period study (Cold War in Asia), and a thematic study and historial interpretation (Civil Rights in the USA).

You will also submit a 4,000-word coursework assignment, which forms part of your final A Level grade.

Progression Options

A strong grade in A Level History is highly regarded by universities and employers. It provides a valuable foundation for further study in history, law, politics, international relations, archaeology, journalism, and education.

Many of our students have progressed to study History and related subjects at top institutions, including Oxbridge and other Russell Group universities. Previous alumni include Dr Miles Kerr-Peterson, Dr Jonathan Taylor, and Dr Jessica Thorne, who began their academic journeys here.

Entry Requirements

You will need five GCSEs in the 9-4 range, including English.

Frequently Asked Questions

We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.