History
“I know that I am intelligent, because I know that I know nothing.” – Socrates
HISTORYHead of Department: Ms Ashely Shaw
Teachers: Mr. Kevin Wilson, Ms. Lara Davies, Ms. Tammana Wilson.
At Moonstone’s History Department, we strongly advocate for the idea that learning history plays a crucial role in both the intellectual and social advancement of our students. Our goal is to cultivate individuals who are equipped to comprehend the challenges of their present-day world by reflecting on historical events. We believe that delving into history not only fosters a deeper understanding of one’s identity but also empowers students to engage with and critically examine key ideas that shape society.
The History Curriculum at the Latymer School aims to:
- Spark a genuine curiosity and passion for exploring history.
- Guide students in recognizing that studying history isn’t just about uncovering the past, but also understanding how historians have interpreted it.
- Introduce fundamental historical concepts that help students make sense of and structure their understanding of historical events.
- Encourage the development of critical thinking, enabling students to analyze their own society and the world they live in. This is often supported by examining the social, moral, and spiritual dimensions of historical topics.
- Inspire imaginative and empathetic thinking about past events, helping students relate to them on a deeper level.
- Promote a wider interest in history beyond the classroom through activities like the Year 8 and 9 history forums, History Society, and later engagement with the Politics Podcast and History Magazine.
- Strengthen cross-departmental connections to enrich students’ learning experiences.
- Help students develop key transferable skills, such as oracy and essay-writing, to prepare them for future challenges.
- Encourage critical thought by fostering an appreciation for diverse perspectives and the ability to assess different arguments.
- Empower students with the confidence and passion to pursue history further, with the goal of continuing their studies at university level.
KEY STAGE 3
The curriculum is crafted to immerse students in some of the most pivotal and transformative events in British history. It offers an in-depth journey from the Medieval era to the emergence of the Modern World. Throughout their studies, students will critically examine crucial periods of social, political, and religious upheaval, while being encouraged to challenge and reflect on the historical stories they uncover.
Year 7
- The Black Death
- The Peasants’ Revolt
- Medieval Society: Religion and Social Structure
- Islamic Civilisation
- The Romans
- The Norman Conquest
Year 8
- The English Revolution
- The Reformation in England
- The Witch Craze in Early Modern England
- The French Revolution
- The establishment of the Tudor Dynasty
Year 9
- The Holocaust
- World War II
- Industrialisation and Empire
- World War I
- The British Transatlantic Slave Trade
- 20th Century ideologies: Communism and Fascism
- War and social change: Civil rights in America and women’s suffrage in England
KEY STAGE 4
History has become an increasingly popular choice at GCSE, with students following the Edexcel specification. They explore four units that offer a deep dive into the Medieval, Early Modern, and Modern Worlds. Throughout their studies, students will develop essential historical skills, including the ability to assess sources critically and analyze various historical perspectives.
Topic One
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Superpower Relations and the Cold War, 1941-1991
Topic Two
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Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1919-1939
Topic Three
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Medicine in Britain, 1250 to the present
Topic Four
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Early Elizabethan England, 1558-1588
KEY STAGE 5
At A Level, students follow the AQA History specification, studying the English Revolution and engaging with key concepts like revolution, while evaluating the successes and failures of radical ideas. The Russia option offers a contrasting study of a nation’s long-term development. Additionally, students conduct independent research on the historical relationship between Ireland and Britain. This rigorous approach ensures students are well-prepared for undergraduate study.
Depth study
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The English Revolution, 1625-1660
Thematic study
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Tsarist and Communist Russia, 1855-1964
Historical investigation
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Ireland and Britain, 1798-1921
EXTRA - CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
- Educational excursions to Normandy and Berlin
- Sixth Form-led History Society organizing events and activities
- Talks and presentations by guest lecturers
- Access to the History Review and interactive online seminars
- Student membership with the Historical Association
- A History Reading Group for deeper exploration and discussion
DESTINATIONS
A primary goal of ours is to encourage students to pursue History or related fields at the university level. Between 2018 and 2020, 35 students chose to continue their studies in History or a History-related subject, often combined with Politics.
“At Moonstone Academy, we are dedicated to providing exceptional support to ensure our students have the opportunities and encouragement they need to thrive and reach their full potential, both academically and in the broader community.”