The philosopher and writer, Santayana, said: “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” He was right – by studying history, and building our understanding of major historical events and trends, we also build a better understanding of the world around us today. A Level History helps you apply your knowledge of past events to appreciate, and to make informed decisions about, the present and the future. By studying A Level History at Westminster City School, you will learn the events of the Chinese revolution and uncover why students from 91 schools were encouraged to drag their teachers out into the streets and clear away the evil habits of the old society. You will compare the turbulent past of Chinese history to the events of the French Revolution and the rise of their new leader, a king by another name, Napoleon Bonaparte. You will also study the developing British political history, watching the country face war, riots, strikes and controversial leadership of Prime Ministers like Churchill or Thatcher. A relevant, exciting and challenging option, A Level History will develop your critical thinking abilities. These important transferable skills (like research, communication and debate) prepare you for your own future. For example, the analytical skills developed by A Level History will help if you wish to read law at university. A Level History can lead to further study at university, as well as to a range of rewarding and successful careers. What you will learn in Year 12: • France in revolution 1774-1815 • Britain 1930-1997 • China and its rulers 1839-1989 • Civil right in the USA 1863-1968 What you will learn in Year 13: • China and its rulers 1839-1989 • Civil rights in the USA 1863-1968 • Revision Assessment: You will be assessed by examinations and coursework at the end of Year 13. • Exam 1 – Britain 1930-1997 (worth 25% of your A Level) • Exam 2 – France in revolution 1774-1815 (worth 15% of your A Level) • Exam 3 – China and the rulers 1839-1989 (worth 40% of your A Level) • Coursework on African American civil rights in the USA 1863-1968 (worth 20% of your A Level). This is an in-depth study on a provocative topic and means you will ask important questions like: why has it taken so long for different races to be treated as equals? Looking ahead: Historians have a huge impact on the world today and history remains a popular discipline at university, either alone or in combination with another subject. A history degree is helpful for a number of careers, including positions in government or with NGOs, journalism and the media, teaching, banking and commerce, the law, publishing, research, social work, and more. Notable individuals with history degrees include Kenneth Cheanult (former CEO of American Express), Susan Wajcicki (CEO of YouTube), filmmaker Louis Theroux, and former Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Prince Charles also has a degree in history!