History
Our Aim
It is our aim to encourage an enthusiastic interest in the study of the past, while developing in our pupils the ability to think critically about causation and sources of evidence. We also seek to develop the pupils’ skill of empathy, the ability to understand the motives, experiences and reactions of different individuals or groups within an historical situation. Pupils will also be encouraged to communicate information, arguments and conclusions clearly and coherently in writing and orally.
Curriculum
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Key Stage 3
In Form 1 pupils study the Norman Impact on the Medieval World, followed by the Reformation in Europe, Britain and Ireland. Form 2 begins with the study of European Voyages of Discovery, and this is followed by the study of Europe, Britain and Ireland from 1570 to 1700. The Form 3 course consists of the study of Ireland and Britain from 1800 to 1921, followed by the study of the First World War. -
GCSE
Pupils follow the AQA “B” specification. Coursework assignments on the Blitz on Belfast and the Assassination of John F Kennedy account for 25% of the course. Four units – Germany 1918-39, USA 1918 – 41, International History 1945-91 and Britain in the Second World War – are studied for the written examination which accounts for 75% of the course. -
AS/A2
The CCEA History specification is followed. For the AS examination pupils study Russia, Italy and Germany in the inter-war years. At A2 they study the Causes of the Second World War, Unionism and Nationalism in Nineteenth Century Ireland, and the Partition of Ireland 1900-1925.
Facilities and Resources
The History Department is located at the top of the Crombie building in rooms of much character. Considerable video material is available to help to bring the past to life, and the installation of a data projector in C6 has enabled access to CD-ROMs and the Internet. Classes are also given the opportunity to use the ICT suite and are encouraged to use the School Library; both of these facilities are located in the Crombie building, convenient to the History Department.
Additional Information
Where possible, visits are organised, for example to Carrickfergus Castle or to the Somme Heritage Centre. Sixth Form pupils attend lectures organised by the universities or CCEA. They may be selected to participate in Reading Parties organised by the Villiers Park Trust at Foxton, Cambridge. Many of our pupils go on to study History at University, including Oxford and Cambridge.
School News
BOYS’ ATHLETICS RESULTS
13th May 2008
District Championships, Antrim Forum
GIRLS’ ATHLETICS RESULTS
12th May 2008
District Championships, Antrim Forum
CHESS RESULTS
12th May 2008
UK Chess Challenge Megafinal of Northern Ireland
SHOWJUMPING RESULTS
12th May 2008
Ulster Schools’ Showjumping Spring Championships