An excellent induction programme for new pupils helps identify their learning needs and helps them settle into school life. 
History
The National Curriculum for history states that pupils should have a range and depth of historical understanding, should understand chronology and different interpretations of events in the past, should be able to use historical sources for independent enquiry and should be able to organise and communicate their ideas clearly.
At Key Stage 3 (covering years 7 to 9) pupils are taught these skills through the following study units:
- Medieval Realms: Britain 1066-1500
- The Making of the United Kingdom 1500-1750
- Britain 1750-1900
- An era or turning point in European history before 1914 (the Roman Empire)
- A past non-European society
This 'programme of study' leads to an attainment target consisting of eight 'level descriptors'. By the end of KS3 most pupils will be within the range 3 to 7.
At Key Stage 4 pupils who opt to study history for GCSE follow a twentieth century world history syllabus, while those who go to A-Level, study 18th and 19th century British and European history.
The subject is taught in a variety of different ways, using a wide range of textbooks and audio-visual resources (especially video). In years 8 and 9 project work is especially important and parents are asked to monitor progress.
Exam Success
External exam results in history in recent years have been very good. In 1997, 83% of the pupils entered gained a grade C or above. Last year 45% gained grade A. Results this year are also likely to be better than the national average for similar schools.
