GCSE History

Exam Board & Specification: Edexcel GCSE History

Subject Lead Contact:

Mr A Harney

What will students study at Key Stage 4?

Year 10: Students begin one period study and one British depth study (as timetabled), developing structured explanations that weigh causes, consequences and significance, and learning to interrogate sources for provenance, content and context.

Year 11: They complete remaining units, including a thematic study over time. Practice centres on extended writing, evaluation of interpretations and balancing precise factual knowledge with analysis to reach substantiated judgements.

What do assessments test?

• AO1: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key features and characteristics of the periods studied
• AO2: Explain, analyse and make substantiated judgements about causes, consequences, change and continuity
• AO3/AO4: Analyse sources and interpretations to reach supported conclusions

What are the expectations of my child in this subject?

Bring full equipment, participate actively, complete homework on time, and use retrieval practice and past questions regularly. Keep notes organised and act on feedback promptly.

What should my child do if they feel they are struggling in this subject?

Speak to the teacher early, identify specific topics/skills to target, attend clinics/interventions, and use recommended resources (knowledge organisers, revision platforms, model answers).

How can I best support my child in this subject?

Discuss progress, help plan short and frequent study sessions, encourage targeted practice ahead of assessments, and ensure use of department‑recommended resources and past papers.