Humanities at Newhaven School

The humanities define who we are as a people. That is their power -- to remind us of what we each have to offer, and what we all have in common. To help us understand our history and imagine our future. To give us hope in the moments of struggle and to bring us together when nothing else will.

newhaven humanities

Humanities at Newhaven School

Humanities are the study of human culture. For this reason, humanities’ courses vary widely in scope and are available at both KS3 and KS4.

Newhaven offers students valuable opportunities to learn not only about themselves and their local communities but to develop an understanding of the world around them and how we all fit in to one global community.

Humanities allow students to not only understand their current experiences in the world but to also understand how the past has shaped us today and how our actions will shape the world in the future.

Key Stage 3 Humanities:

Diverse and exciting curriculum

Learning about topics like Brazil, the Normans, London, the Tudors, the Big Bang, and rivers gives students the chance to explore the world in exciting ways! Discovering Brazil’s vibrant culture and landscapes, uncovering how the Normans shaped England, and diving into London’s history helps students see how places and people have left their mark. The dramatic stories of the Tudors show how powerful decisions still affect us today, while exploring the Big Bang unravels the mysteries of our universe. Studying rivers reveals how nature shapes everything around us. Together, these topics make learning a thrilling adventure that connects history, science, and geography, bringing the world to life!

Term 1 Term 2 Term 3 Term 4 Term 5 Term 6
KS3 Gardens Brazil in all its glory Normans 26.2 Miles of London Tudors The Big Bang Rivers
KS3 Kings Park Normans Normans Map Skills Map Skills Tudors Tudors
newhaven humanities
newhaven humanities
newhaven humanities

London Bridge experience

GCSE History at Newhaven: Studying AQA GCSE History is a great choice because it brings the past to life and helps you understand how the world came to be as it is today. You’ll dive into exciting events, uncover fascinating stories, and learn to think critically, debate, and analyse like a detective. Plus, the skills you gain – from problem-solving to building strong arguments – are useful in loads of careers, making it both fun and practical!

History curriculum: These topics are exciting because they show how people, events, and big changes have shaped the world we live in today. Health and the People looks at the amazing progress in medicine and public health over time, showing how people fought against diseases and improved healthcare. The First World War is all about bravery, strategy, and the huge impact it had on soldiers and everyday life. Germany, 1890-1945 tells the dramatic story of how Germany changed from a democracy to a dictatorship, leading to major world events. Norman England dives into the thrilling story of battles, castles, and how the Normans changed England forever. Each topic is like a time-travelling adventure through history!

Term 1 Term 2 Term 3 Term 4 Term 5 Term 6
Year 1 Health and the People: c1000 to present day Health and the People: c1000 to present day Health and the People: c1000 to present day The First World War, 1894–1918 The First World War, 1894–1918 Exams or Germany, 1890–1945: Democracy and dictatorship
Year 2 Germany, 1890–1945: Democracy and dictatorship Germany, 1890–1945: Democracy and dictatorship Norman England, c1066–c1100 Norman England, c1066–c1100 Norman England, c1066–c1100 Exams or Health and the People: c1000 to present day

Exam Structure:

Paper 1: Understanding the Modern World

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Weighting: 50% of the GCSE
  • Content:
    • Section A: Period Study: Germany 1890–1945
      • Questions will test knowledge and understanding of this specific period in German history.
    • Section B: Wider World Depth Study: The First World War, 1894–1918
      • Involves questions that assess students’ understanding of the causes, events, and consequences of the First World War.

Paper 2: Shaping the Nation

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Weighting: 50% of the GCSE
  • Content:
    • Section A: Thematic Study: (e.g., Britain: Health and the People)
      • Focuses on a specific theme across different time periods.
    • Section B: British Depth Study: (e.g., Norman England 1066–1100)
      • Involves more in-depth questions about specific British historical contexts.

For some students we will offer an OCR Entry Level:

Entry Level OCR History is designed to be accessible for students with varying abilities and provides a foundation in historical skills and understanding. The structure typically includes the following components:

  1. Assessment Objectives:
    • AO1: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of history.
    • AO2: Analyze and evaluate historical sources and interpretations.
    • AO3: Communicate historical understanding effectively.
  2. Content Areas:
    • The course covers a range of historical topics, often including:
      • The study of British history (e.g., significant events, changes in society).
      • World history themes (e.g., conflict, peace, and social movements).
      • Local history, emphasizing how history affects the community.
  3. Modules/Units:
    • Students typically study specific modules that focus on key themes or periods in history. These can vary but often include:
      • Conflict and change (World War I).
      • Social history (Health).
      • Important historical figures or movements.
  4. 4. Assessment:
    • The assessment usually consists of:
      • A written exam that tests knowledge and understanding.
      • Controlled assessments or coursework that allows students to explore topics in more depth.
  5. Skills Development:
    • The curriculum emphasizes the development of critical historical skills, including:
      • Source analysis: Evaluating the reliability and significance of different sources.
      • Argument construction: Developing and presenting coherent arguments based on evidence.
      • Historical interpretation: Understanding different perspectives and interpretations of historical events.

This structure provides a comprehensive approach to history, allowing students to build essential skills and knowledge while engaging with various historical contexts.

Here’s a list of free resources for students revising AQA GCSE History:

BBC Bitesize – GCSE History

  • A comprehensive resource covering a range of topics aligned to the AQA specification, with interactive lessons and quizzes.

Mr Allsop History

  • Provides revision podcasts, exam tips, and resources covering different historical topics.

GCSE History Revision

  • Offers revision notes, quizzes, and model answers tailored for the AQA GCSE History curriculum.

History Learning Site

  • Contains detailed notes on various AQA topics, covering key events and themes.

Get Revising

  • A platform that offers a variety of free resources, including revision cards, quizzes, and user-generated notes for collaborative study.

These resources should provide solid support for your students as they prepare for their exams!