A Level History 2025-26

History is the study of past events. We often think of history as being a long time ago, but history underpins everything! History is always happening around us. Why do certain events happen? What has stayed the same through history and what has changed? Why was this event significant? Historians research a wide range of topics - from ancient history all the way up to the modern day. History will help you develop your analytical and evaluative skills, and it is an A Level that is looked very fondly upon by universities for many courses... not just within humanities.

Here at ED6, you will study Italian history, German history and Tudor history. You will also be able to complete your own investigation into a historical topic of your choice. If you are interested in the study of the past and how this continues to shape our future alongside enjoying a challenge, then A Level History is for you!

Year 12:
Paper 1: Germany and West Germany, 1918 – 1989 – In this paper we take a thematic approach considering political and economic changes as well as changes in the experiences of the people of Germany. We will also look in-depth at the reasons behind the outbreak of WWII using the interpretations of Historians.

Paper 2: The Rise and Fall of Fascism in Italy, c. 1911 - 46 - This is an in-depth study of how fascism developed within Italy and its eventual downfall in 1946. In this paper, we will explore how fascism developed as a result of WWI and how much of this can be attributed to Mussolini, the Italian dictator. We will look at Mussolini's dictatorship and the issues that led to his downfall in 1945 and the return of democracy to Italy.

Year 13:
Paper 3: Rebellion and Disorder under the Tudors, 1485-1603 – This paper will combine the skills you have learnt in both Papers 1 and 2 as it studies Tudor history in breadth and depth. We will explore changes in governance along with taking a deep dive into issues such as Henry VII’s uncertain accession of the throne, the break with Rome during Henry VIII’s rulership and the conflict between Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots.

Coursework: In Year 13 you will also complete a 3000 - 4000 word historical investigation on a topic of your choice. This will allow you to further develop your skills as a Historian and explore a specific area of history that really interests you.

A wide range of jobs love the skills that A Level History teaches! Popular options are teaching, archivist, museum work, law, journalism, police, architecture, librarian, marketing... the possibilities are endless!

History is a facilitating subject – meaning that universities on a wide range of courses love the skills that History students develop. If you are considering pursuing History at undergraduate level, it is a prerequisite that you study A Level History. With an A Level in History, you could go on to study a range of other subjects such as: Politics; Sociology; English; Philosophy; Geography; Teaching; Law.

For A Level History you will need a grade 5 or above in GCSE English Literature or English Language.

For a three A Level programme you will need to have a minimum of five 9-4 grade passes at GCSE which includes English and Mathematics.

For a four A Level programme you will need to have a minimum of six 9-4 grade passes at GCSE which includes English and Mathematics; it is expected that the majority of passes will be at 7-9 grade.

Our entry requirements are in place to support our students in achieving the qualifications they have chosen to study. In addition to the entry requirements, all students will be regularly assessed by East Durham College at an early stage in their study programme. This is to ensure that students are enrolled onto courses which suit their abilities – following assessment, there may be occasions when students are transferred to a relevant course at a higher or lower level in order to ensure they are enrolled on to the right course for them to achieve and progress.

Entry onto any course at EDC may have entry requirements in addition to exam results; this includes but is not limited to DBS checks, references, fitness to practice and at times physical requirements to be capable of achieving the practical elements of the course without assistance. Entry onto any course at East Durham College is subject to final approval from the Assistant Principal.

All examinations for A Level History are sat at the end of Year 13. These examinations make up 80% of your overall A Level grade.

You will also complete a piece of coursework as a historical investigation. You will get to choose the topic in discussion with your lecturer. This is worth 20%.

Awarding Body - Edexcel

September 2025

Two years, full time.