AS/A Level History


  • Start Date: 08/09/2025
  • Course is for: School Leaver
  • Course Length: 1 Year
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On this course, you’ll study the history of both the UK and the USA.

The UK element will largely focus around the challenge and transformation of Britain from 1851-1964.

The USA element will examine the birth of the nation and the establishment of government from 1760-1801. 

The course has been specifically designed and structured to help students understand the significance of historical events, the role of individuals in history and the nature of change over time.

This will enable you to gain a deeper understanding of the past through political, social, economic and cultural perspectives.

The engaging topics that you will study will help you to develop your independent research and discussion skills. 

At A-Level, there will be an opportunity to undertake a major Historical Investigation.

By doing this, you will develop an enhanced understanding of the nature and purpose of history as a discipline and how historians work.

This will broaden your study of the past whilst having the opportunity to study a specific issue in great depth.

You will follow the AQA specification which includes the following topics:

  • The challenge and transformation of Britain c. 1851-1964
  • The birth of the USA 1760-1801
  • An Historical Investigation of your own choice

Some of the indicative content you will study includes:

  • Political reform and challenge during the Victorian and Edwardian era
  • The impact of the Great War and the political and social transformation within Britain
  • The colonial relationship between Britain and America
  • The growth of the independence movement and the eventual war with Britain
  • The establishment of the American State

Assessment

Your skills and knowledge will be assessed in a variety of different ways:

  • Written exams
  • Essays/coursework
  • Frequent Topic Tests
  • Mock Assessments
  • Practical Assessments

This course is free to those aged under 19 years old.

Most people aged 19 years and over can qualify for free course fees and there are grants and bursaries you can apply for to help cover the costs of coming to college, depending on your circumstances.

For one to one advice, contact our friendly team who will assess your individual circumstances and give you the right information. You can contact them on 0191 490 2246, [email protected] or via Live Chat. Or pop along to one of our Enrolment Events.

Apply using the apply now button on this page.

Whatever support you need, we’re here for you and will make sure you get the most out of your time at college.

We have expert teams in place to look after every single one of our students.

Our specialist teams can help with:

  • Learning difficulties
  • Physical and sensory disabilities
  • Dyslexia, dyspraxia, neurodiversity or other specific learning difficulties
  • Mental health and well being
  • Exam access arrangements
  • Money, finance and bursary advice
  • Careers advice, job and university applications

See here for more information, pop into one of our enrolment events, call us on 0191 490 4627.

History is a highly academic and well respected A-Level. Students that study History develop life-long skills that are absolutely invaluable in the world of work.

By the end of this course you will have learned to evaluate and analyse information, work independently, weigh-up evidence and communicate complex ideas effectively.

All these skills are recognised and valued by employers and universities, giving you a wide choice of degree and career opportunities to explore.

Typical careers following the study of history include:

  • Work in the heritage and museum sector
  • Archivist
  • Teaching
  • Journalism
  • Civil service
  • Political work.
In order to study A-levels with us, all students need to obtain a strong GCSE grade profile, averaging 6 x Grade 6s. Individual subjects will also have their own specific requirements. However, if you do not meet this profile, please still come to one of our enrolment events to discuss all of your options with a member of our A-level team.

School Leaver Course Guide 2025/2026

View or download our course guide for 16-18 year olds.

Gateshead College School Leavers guide for 2025 - 2026