History A-Level
History Curriculum Intent
The Wixams History Curriculum strives to ignite a passion for understanding the past through rigorous inquiry that unlocks Powerful Knowledge. Students develop a coherent sense of chronology, connecting local, national and global histories to their own experiences. We emphasize critical thinking by encouraging learners to evaluate diverse sources, construct rigorous arguments and developing disciplinary knowledge to reveal the powerful processes of historical thinking. Through short enquiries —from medieval societies to modern rights movements—students build disciplinary skills to explore continuity and change across time, as well as causation and consequence, similarity and difference, historical interpretation and evidential thinking.
We integrate British history alongside world events to foster informed and responsible citizenship that cultivates empathy and respect for different cultures and communities, and represents the diverse backgrounds of our students. Regular opportunities for debate, group projects and reflection deepen engagement and develop collaborative skills.
Ultimately, we aim to nurture independent learners who are resilient, curious and inspired to use their historical thinking skills in their everyday life. Therefore, History at Wixams is not only about the past but a dynamic lens for understanding and shaping our shared future. Our History curriculum continuously evolves in response to historical scholarship and student voice, ensuring relevance and inspiration remain at its core.
Curriculum Implementation – Curriculum Map
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Autumn 1 |
Autumn 2 |
Spring 1 |
Spring 2 |
Summer 1 |
Summer 2 |
Year 12 |
Tudors: Henry VII
Russia: 1917 |
Tudors: Henry VII
Russia: Bolshevik consolidation of power |
Tudors: Henry VIII
Russia: The Russian Civil War |
Tudors: Henry VIII
Russia: The NEP and Leadership contest |
Tudors: Henry VIII
Russia: The Great Turn and collectivisation |
Tudors: Henry VIII and Edward VI
Russia: the Five Year Plans |
Year 13 |
Tudors: Edward VI and Mary
Russia: Soviet economy and society |
Tudors: Elizabeth
Russia: Russian foreign policy and the cult of leadership |
Tudors: Elizabeth
Russia: The Great Patriotic War |
Tudors Elizabeth
Russia: High Stalinism |
Revision |
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Texts and Exam Boards
Year 12-13 |
Exam board AQA
Core texts Russia in Revolution Tudor England
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Useful resources |
Our library has a well-stocked History selection Various extended readings are available via the department website
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