Our history curriculum aspires to develop global citizens by fostering critical thinking, encouraging the exploration of diverse historical narratives, and promoting independent thought and reasoned debate.
Through this, students gain a deeper understanding of both history and its relevance to the modern world. We aim to empower students with an awareness of their agency as individuals, the rights they are entitled to, and their role in shaping the future of society.
Most importantly, students are equipped to work collaboratively, think critically, respect diverse perspectives, and analyse complex issues with empathy and clarity. Students develop skills in public speaking, debating, source analysis and essay writing, equipping them excellently for future IB and university study in all subjects.
The Key Stage 3 History curriculum in Years 7 to 9 introduces students to a diverse range of world history, spanning from prehistory to the modern day.
Year 7 begins with thematic studies such as the evolution of medicine over time and the impact of colonisation on indigenous peoples. Students also explore how Tudor monarchs shaped the course of English history and how individuals and groups, including women, have challenged inequality and injustice. These topics are underpinned by skills development in evaluating evidence and understanding cause and consequence.
Year 8 explores the question "Do revolutions really change anything?" through an analysis of the French, Russian and American revolutions, before studying the history of black peoples of America, from the Transatlantic Slave trade through to 1960s Civil Rights.
Year 9 students explore modern history topics and consider what it was like to live through World War I and the Cold War, as well as exploring the case of tyrannies and genocides in the 21st Century. All of these topics are underpinned by a comprehensive study of ideologies.
In Year 10 and Year 11, students follow the Cambridge IGCSE History syllabus, which focuses on major international issues of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Our four topics include the suitability of the Treaty of Versailles, the effectiveness of the League of Nations, the causes of the Second World War, and the dynamics of the Cold War.
Additionally, they complete an in-depth regional study of the US from 1919-1941, covering the economic boom, social changes and Great Depression. Students refine their abilities to analyse historical evidence, construct balanced arguments, and communicate ideas effectively. They sit one short-essay paper (40%), one source analysis paper (40%), and complete one 2,000-word coursework essay (30%) which analyses the significance of a historical event.
The IB Diploma History course is challenging and rigorous. The curriculum encourages critical thinking, analysis of historical evidence, and engagement with multiple perspectives.
Students are required to present strong arguments, supported by multiple pieces of evidence from a range of sources, and complemented by critical analysis and alternative perspectives.
Students explore a comparative analysis of Hitler and Castro, comparing how they rose to and maintained power. They also study the key events and tensions of the Cold War, alongside a source paper on the Move to Global War (Japan, Germany, Italy).
Students who choose to study Higher Level History also complete an in-depth regional study of the US, covering the Great Depression, Civil Rights and Cold War.
The curriculum also includes the Internal Assessment, where students independently research a historical topic of personal interest and produce a 2,200-word essay. This rigorous, yet holistic approach not only prepares students for the IB assessments but also cultivates a lifelong interest in history, equipping them with analytical and evaluative skills essential for university and beyond​.
IB Diploma Programme Subject Brief Individuals and societies: History—standard level
IB Diploma Programme Subject Brief Individuals and societies: History—higher level