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History

History is taught at Polam Hall with particular aims in mind.

We very much want students to enjoy the subject and take a general interest in it into adult life. However, we also see history as a major contributor to our students’ overall education and to their literacy, study and communication skills – all of which are vital in the competitive world outside our school. History is also a major vehicle through which students learn about British and world culture and what it means to be a good citizen in a democracy and in the wider world.

We try to fulfil these objectives by using a range of teaching methods, which enable people with differing abilities and preferred learning styles to maximise their achievements. We use video to try to bring the outside world into the classroom, and provide opportunities to see and hear primary source material. We back this up with an excellent history library, and visits in and out of term time. We pride ourselves on the success with which history is taught in mixed ability groups at GCSE, AS and A2 levels.

Over the last few years we have organised cruises to the Eastern Mediterranean, visited Rome and Naples, toured Berlin, Prague and Cracow (including a visit to Auschwitz) and explored the First World War Battlefields. We also take groups of younger students for a four day visit to London every two years.

Above all, we hope that the students who have studied history at Polam Hall develop strong analytical skills and approach the world with a critical and knowledgeable eye.


Students' Views on History

'I really enjoy this subject because I find it interesting to study the past and the causes and consequences of people's actions. It really broadens your general knowledge and as I am hoping to study law, it is useful as universities especially acknowledge it.

I would encourage anyone who wants a subject that is both fun and challenging to take history!'

- A current A2 student

'Very interesting.'

'It fits with my other subjects.'

'You need to be:

  • argumentative
  • keen to learn about the past
  • have a logical mind
  • be willing to read
  • be good at expressing your views
  • interested in team work
  • good at debating
  • confident'

- current AS students

'I am studying Business Management at university but I am really glad I studied history as I really enjoyed it. I also learned how to write an essay and only two of us on my course were told we knew how to write an essay properly when we started at university.'

- A recent past student