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Oxford Online School

Key Stage 5

📜 History

Investigate the forces that shaped the modern world through a rigorous A Level History course with live lessons, small classes and expert teacher support.

Overview

A Level History develops students' capacity to analyse, interpret and evaluate historical evidence from multiple perspectives. The course spans key periods and turning points in modern history, building the research skills, extended writing ability and critical thinking demanded by leading universities.

What Students Study

Modern World History

Students examine the major political, social and economic developments of the twentieth century, from the World Wars to the Cold War. Events are analysed through competing historical interpretations.

  • Causes and consequences of the First and Second World Wars
  • The rise of totalitarian regimes in Europe
  • The Cold War: origins, crises and resolution

Revolution, Nationalism and Empire

Students explore how revolutionary movements and nationalist forces have shaped the boundaries of modern states and the collapse of imperial systems.

  • The Russian Revolution and its aftermath
  • Decolonisation and the emergence of new nations
  • Nationalism, self-determination and international order

Dictatorship and Democracy

This unit compares the features and conditions of authoritarian regimes and democratic systems, examining how societies have transitioned between them in the modern era.

  • Fascism, communism and authoritarian governance
  • Democratic consolidation and institutional development
  • Human rights, propaganda and social control

Thematic Historical Study

Students investigate a broad historical theme across a longer chronological span, developing the ability to synthesise evidence and construct sustained arguments over time.

  • Change and continuity across historical periods
  • Causation, consequence and historical significance
  • Comparative analysis across countries and eras

Historical Skills and Source Analysis

Students develop the advanced skills of historical enquiry: evaluating primary and secondary sources, assessing reliability and constructing well-evidenced arguments.

  • Evaluating primary sources for purpose and reliability
  • Engaging with historiographical debate
  • Extended essay writing and structured argumentation

Assessment & Progress

Oxford Online School follows the Pearson Edexcel International A Level (IAL) History specification. This qualification is assessed through written examination only, without coursework. To build exam readiness, students complete:

  • Weekly homework assignments
  • Termly project-based assessments
  • Full mock exams with personalised written feedback

Course Details

Assessment

  • The qualification is assessed entirely through written examinations.
  • No coursework or non-examined assessment component is required.
  • All examinations are sat at an approved Pearson Edexcel International A Level centre.
  • Grades are awarded on a scale from A* to E.

Course Duration

The International A Level course runs over two academic years (Years 12 and 13). Students have continuous access to live online lessons, one-to-one subject support, and learning resources throughout the programme.

Course Outcome

Students who successfully complete all required examinations are awarded the Pearson Edexcel International A Level qualification. This is recognised by universities and higher education institutions worldwide as equivalent to UK A Levels.

Entry Requirements

  • Five or more International GCSE grades at C/4 or above (or equivalent)
  • Grade B/6 or above at IGCSE level in the chosen A Level subject or a closely related subject
  • A pass in an internal subject assessment completed prior to enrolment
  • Students whose English is not their first language must provide a language certificate showing a minimum B2 level in all components, or sit an internal English assessment
  • Two years of previous school reports are required
FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Have questions about A Level History? Here are some of the key things families often want to know.

Next steps

Ready for university?

Our Sixth Form A Level programme gives students the grades, skills, and personal statement support to secure their university place.