History

Course summary

History is offered at both Standard and Higher Levels as part of the IB Diploma. The Standard Level course provides further exploration of the Cold War and a source-based inquiry into Apartheid in South Africa and the American Civil Rights movement. The remainder of the course is devoted to a thematic study of 20th-century single-party states and authoritarian regimes, such as Mussolini’s Italy and Castro’s Cuba. Those students who pursue History at both IB and degree level can explore diverse career opportunities with careers directly related to history including academic research, museum and gallery curation or teaching. History degrees can also provide opportunities in fields such as the civil service, law or journalism. The History Department organises trips to local museums such as the RAF Cosford Museum. In recent years there have been international trips including a Middle School trip to Berlin. The History Society is run by students in the Sixth Form. It organises lectures from guest speakers and allows boys to present to their peers the research they have undertaken for their Extended Essay or any other historical topics they are interested in. The Society also supports boys who wish to read History at Oxford and Cambridge.