History

In the History Department we aim to develop students’ analytical skills, critical thinking and extended writing techniques through a broad based curriculum across all key stages. The History Department aims to help students understand that we should learn from the successes and failings of the past in order to learn and grow from them as responsible citizens. The impact of learning History at QK is to empower students to become confident individuals, responsible citizens and successful learners.

Current Developments

This year 7 History students have already been focusing on their local history in the introductory module on London. They, along with Year 8 are now embarking on exciting new units of learning on the Battle of Hastings and the English Civil War. Year 9 is a key year for History this year as students are studying for an AQA GCSE in Humanities covering a wide range of topics from World War One to the Civil Rights Movement. Year 12 Historians are reaping the benefits of a brand new course on Henry VIII. Year 13 Historians are able to develop their skills independently in their coursework on Germany.

Highlights of 2009 Results

• AS Results for August 2009 showed an improvement in the department and student responses to the courses run have been very positive. This was the first year of the new AS History and the change has had a positive impact on the students.
• QK History Department is pleased to say that all students passed GCSE, AS and A2 History last year.

Beyond QK

Beyond the fantastic lessons at QK there have also been many new projects afoot such as:

• The year 12 visit to the National Portrait Gallery and the Tower of London to evaluate sources from the reign of Henry VIII.
• The year 7 trip to the Tower of London where they investigated the importance of defences to the tower.
• Sixth Form students were also moved by the inspiring talk given by John Dobai, a Holocaust survivor who kindly came to speak to the students.