History

Department

As an enthusiastic and vibrant department, our aim is to allow pupils to access history in a way that is both relevant and engaging.

Pupils at Friends’ study a mixture of Irish, British, European and world history in a diverse curriculum that enables them to discover, debate and reach informed decisions on our past. We encourage a strong focus on communication skills, critical thinking and cultural awareness, as well as instilling balance and confidence in our pupils.

Curriculum

Pupils are given the opportunity to explore a varied array of topics spanning 2000 years.

Year 8 begins with a Foundations Unit, followed by a study of Ancient History through the Roman Empire, before moving into the Medieval Era with the Normans.

In Year 9, pupils study the Early Modern period with themes on the Renaissance, Reformation and Revolution. In Year 10, our focus is on Modern History with a study on World War One, followed by Events That Changed the Twentieth Century.

Pupils cover a broad curriculum within the CCEA course.

In Year 11, they engage in a depth study of Nazi Germany and the Northern Irish ‘Troubles’.

This is followed in Year 12 by an overview study of International Relations between 1945-2003, including some of the most pivotal moments of the previous century.

At AS History, pupils study Weimar and Nazi Germany, and either Communist Russia or Fascist Italy (teacher dependent).

At A2 History, pupils take an overview course on the American Presidency and a depth study on the Partition of Ireland.

The department prides itself on delivering a broad range of extra-curricular activities and trips that benefit all learners.

Each year, Year 8 visit Dundrum Castle, Year 11 visit the Ulster Museum at Botanic, and Year 12 take a 4-day tour of Berlin. In addition, Year 10 partake in a Shared Education Project to the Somme Centre, Dublin City, and a residential trip to Corrymeela in Ballycastle. Furthermore, staff run the Model United Nations Club that meets regularly during school and participates in an annual competition in Dublin.

Our students at A-Level apply to many universities across the UK and Ireland to study courses in history, politics, law, international relations and many others, and pursue successful careers as solicitors, barristers, local politicians, journalists, museum curators and researchers, among many others.