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‘A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.’
History seeks to understand and explain human experience and as such is a rich and rewarding study. History at Francis Holland School is not, therefore, just the learning of a series of dates and events (although they are important); we aim to inspire every student to achieve a wider and deeper understanding of the past and therefore of the contemporary world, while developing key skills of critical analysis and good judgement.
The History Department aims to promote a broad and deep understanding of the past. Within this we develop students’ understanding of the nature of change and continuity, and of causation in history and the relative significance and interplay of causal factors involved in events. We give pupils a sense of the chronology of history and develop students’ use and evaluation of source material to carry out enquiries and reach valid conclusions. We study events from different social, cultural, political, ethnic, religious, and chronological perspectives, and students learn how to avoid ‘hindsight history’ and the use of stereotypes.
The processes involved in exploring history include research, investigation, selectivity, analysis, discussion and debate. These foster inquisitive and analytical minds. Students who study history at FHS also become proficient in the presentation and arrangement of data and argument as the study of history also involves clear and effective presentation, in the form of notes, diagrams and charts, short answers, speeches, and essays.
The department aims for this understanding and these skills to combine in order attain the very best examination results and to foster an enduring enthusiasm for the subject.
One distinctive and crucial value of the study of history is the key role it plays in engendering understanding, respect and responsibility for others. This is important for the creation of a well-informed and respectful school community and contributes to a healthy society. As such the department understands its significance and the impact it can have on students’ lives.
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Staff
The passion and commitment of the history staff make it an extremely popular subject. Girls have achieved excellent results both at GCSE and A level: over the past five years, 98% of A level History students gained the top A or B grades; at GCSE, 85% of students gained the top A* or A grades.
The department is run by Miss E Boon, Head of History, and comprises two other full-time members of staff. Their collective expertise covers a wide range of periods from medieval history to the twentieth century.