In Year 7, students begin by exploring a fundamental question: What is History? This introduction helps students understand how historians investigate the past and why different interpretations of events can exist. They then explore the rich history of Liverpool through the theme of‘the world in one city’, examining how the city has been shaped by migration, trade and global connections. Students study the Norman Conquest and evaluate historical interpretations, including those of historian Simon Schama, developing the skills needed to assess evidence and challenge historical narratives. The curriculum then turns to medieval England, investigating religious belief, power and everyday life before examining the dramatic religious changes of the Tudor period. Students conclude the year by exploring the lives of women in early English history, encouraging them to consider whose stories have traditionally been told and whose have often been overlooked.

In Year 8, students investigate the nature of power, change and democracy. They begin by examining authority during the Stuart period before studying the life of Bryan Blundell and considering how local individuals can shape historical narratives. Students then explore Britain during the Industrial Revolution and assess whether the period represented an extraordinary leap forward in civilisation. The struggle for democracy forms another important area of study, as students investigate the contributions of key individuals and movements that secured political rights and freedoms. The year concludes with an examination of the British Empire, encouraging students to consider how empire has been interpreted and taught over time, and why it remains a subject of contemporary debate.

Year 9 focuses on some of the most significant events and challenges of the twentieth century. Students begin by analysing the origins and consequences of the First World War and then examine the tensions and instability that characterised the interwar years. The study of the Second World War explores both global events and their impact on the lives of ordinary people. Students also undertake a detailed study of the Holocaust, developing a sensitive understanding of the causes and consequences of genocide and the importance of remembrance. The year concludes with a world study of twentieth-century America, broadening students’ understanding of political, social and cultural change beyond Britain and Europe.

At GCSE, students build upon their Key Stage 3 knowledge through a diverse programme of study. In Year 10, students examine the origins and outbreak of the Second World War before undertaking a thematic study of migration, peoples and empire in Britain from c.793 to the modern day. They explore conquest, expansion, empire and twentieth-century Britain, developing an understanding of continuity, change and the experiences of different groups across British history.

Year 11 focuses on the study of Edward I and medieval England, including government, society, military campaigns and the historic environment. Alongside this, students revisit migration and empire and complete structured revision programmes designed to consolidate knowledge and strengthen examination skills. Students are encouraged to make connections across historical periods and develop sophisticated analytical responses.

At A Level, students engage with more specialised and independent historical study. The breadth element focuses on Tudor England, from Henry VII through to Elizabeth I, examining religious, political and social transformation. Alongside this, students study the United States from Truman to Reagan, exploring themes such as the Cold War, civil rights, political leadership and social change. Students also complete an independently researched Non-Examined Assessment within their Tudor studies, developing advanced research, interpretation and academic writing skills. By the end of Year 13, students are able to evaluate complex historical debates and communicate well-supported judgements with confidence and sophistication.

History learning is enhanced through a range of enrichment opportunities that encourage students to engage with historical issues beyond the classroom. At Key Stage 3, students can participate in Junior History and Junior Debate, developing their curiosity, communication and argumentation skills. GCSE students benefit from History Clinics and intervention sessions that provide targeted support and opportunities for deeper discussion. In the Sixth Form, students can serve as History and Politics Prefects, participate in Senior Debate and attend the Politics and Democracy Workshop. Students also have opportunities to broaden their cultural understanding through experiences such as the Paris Trip. These activities promote intellectual curiosity, leadership and an appreciation of how history informs contemporary society and future career pathways.

AQA GCSE History (AQA 8145)

AQA A Level History (AQA 7042)

Years 7–8

• The History of the World in 100 Objects – Neil MacGregor
• The Time Traveller's Guide to Medieval England (Young Readers Edition) – Ian Mortimer
• Norman Conquest – Marc Morris
• Horrible Histories series – Terry Deary

Year 9

• The First World War – Martin Gilbert
• Holocaust: The Facts – Michael Burleigh
• The Diary of a Young Girl – Anne Frank
• The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas – John Boyne

Years 10–11

• Empireland – Sathnam Sanghera
• Black and British – David Olusoga
• Medieval Horizons – Ian Mortimer
• AQA GCSE History Revision Guides (relevant specification)

Years 12–13

• The Tudors – G.J. Meyer
• The Six Wives of Henry VIII – Alison Weir
• The American Century – Walter LaFeber
• The Fire Next Time – James Baldwin
• A People's History of the United States – Howard Zinn

Journals, Podcasts and Wider Reading

• BBC History Magazine
• History Today
• Modern History Review
• Dan Snow’s History Hit podcast
• National Archives educational resources
• Parliament UK historical resources

These resources encourage students to deepen their historical understanding, engage with a range of interpretations and develop the wider reading habits that support success in History and beyond.

1. National Archives

• https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk

2. BBC History

• https://www.historyextra.com

3. History Today

• https://www.historytoday.com

4. UK Parliament

• https://learning.parliament.uk

5. Imperial War Museums

• https://www.iwm.org.uk

6. History Hit

• https://www.historyhit.com