GCSE History Tutors

What is GCSE History?

The GCSE History programme is a linear course, which means that all the exams come together at the end of the course. Expect to do a lot of reading during the course and a great deal of writing as the exams will comprise of easy answers.

Why study GCSE History?

Clearly, there are facts that you will need to learn, but the study of History includes a focus on the ‘why’. Why did things happen as they did, and what were the implications? How does that impact what we do today? Moreover, being able to understand History and what has gone before us allows us to predict, at least to an extent, what might occur in the future. It concerns the study of human experience and how that links the past with the present and what is to come in the future.

Studying History supports you as you develop your critical thinking skills. You’ll need to process vast amounts of information from primary and secondary sources and decide quickly what is important and relevant, and what is not. You’ll improve your analytical skills and learn how to think independently.

What is covered in GCSE History?

There are so many potential periods! Most exam boards will include an element of British History. Beyond that, modern History is a popular topic, including the two World Wars. American History is another key focus and for some, really modern History such as the recent troubles in Afghanistan and the Middle East may appeal, in addition to either world or European History.

What other subjects go with GCSE History?

History is considered a Humanities subject and, as such, combines well with other Humanities subjects such as Geography. For some schools, the advice is to take one Humanities subject alongside science, arts, languages and so forth. History goes well with any subjects, although many students find they are naturally drawn to other similar theoretical subjects. The ability to build an argument is an important skill for many professions.

When it comes to the exam, there will be points assigned to each of the sections and then broken down by individual question. Be sure to concentrate as you write your answer as while the majority of points are allocated to the substance of your answer, there are additional marks for spelling, punctuation and grammar.

Where can GCSE History lead?

The natural progression from GCSE History was traditionally A Levels, although there are now a wider range of options available, including Apprenticeships. Many choose to further their studies at A Level, because they studied GCSE History and developed an avid interest in the subject and a desire to be able to build a picture and develop an argument.

Beyond that, there are few limits. Some job advertisements will ask for a specific study route, especially if there is a very specialist goal at the end. Others will simply want you to be able to demonstrate you can study to a certain level. It does not mean you have to go into teaching.

Is GCSE History right for me?

There is only one person who can ultimately answer that question: you. Take advice by all means, but the final decision rests with the individual student. You are the one who will need to do the reading and form the arguments to a level to pass the exam.

Being interested is the key deciding factor for studying history as there will always be people who can help you along the way. Whether you need support during the course itself, or with wider questions about your longer-term career plan, why not contact the experts at The Profs to understand how we can help with academic decisions or tutoring.