Course Overview
Please note: you will make your selection of three A Levels once you have progressed into the application process.
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 medieval History pathway focuses on differing beliefs and ideas that have shaped history through three major themes: Anglo Saxon England and the Norman Conquest, Russia 1894-1941, and the Viking Age c.790-1066. You will explore major political, social, economic and religious and cultural 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.
Topics may include:
- Anglo-Saxon England and the Norman Conquest, 1035-1107: a study of the end of Anglo-Saxon England and the impact of the Norman Conquest, with a focus on power, warfare, rebellion, and the impact of the Norman Conquest on land ownership, politics, society, culture, and religion.
- Russia, 1894-1941: an in-depth look at the last of the Tsars Nicholas II and the downfall of the Romanovs, the Russian Revolutions of 1917, The Russian Civil War, and Russia under Lenin and Stalin, including the Great Terror and the Purges.
- The Viking Age, c.790-1066: a thematic study of the Viking Age, including their explorations into the North Atlantic, Europe, and Asia. The focus is on Viking beliefs and culture and their impact on the societies including the old ‘Norse’ religion, art, politics, and the role of women.
Assessment Methods
You will be assessed through three written examinations at the end of your second year: British period study and enquiry (Anglo Saxons and Normans), non-British period study (Russia), and thematic study and historical interpretations (The Viking Age).
You will also submit a 4,000-word coursework assignment, which forms part of your final A Level.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
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.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
