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A Level

History (Ancient) A Level

Subject Area
Humanities & Social Sciences
Start Date
September 2026
Study Mode
Full-time
Duration
2 years
Level
Level 3

History has rightly been described as an ‘argument without end'. It offers no fixed answers but some insight into what it is to be a human being and real training in logical thought, data-handling and the attractive expression of ideas. It is also great fun.

Entry requirements

A minimum of 4 subjects at grade 5 or above at GCSE plus English Language and Maths at grade 4 or above. You must have achieved a grade 5 in either History (if studied), English Language, or Religious Studies.

What will I study?

You will study Greek and Roman history, the views of ancient historians and how the ancient world was viewed by them. We will be looking at a period of at least 75 years and the in-depth study will look at social, economic, political, cultural, religious, technological and military factors involved in a particular event or situation.

Year One

Relations between Greek States and between Greek and Non-Greek States, 492-404 BC
This module focuses on the wars of the 4th century BC involving the Greeks and Persians.

The Julio-Claudian Emperors, 31 BC-AD 68
This module focuses on the establishment of what is known as the principate, the reign of the emperors. We look at the first emperor, Augustus, and then examine the extent to which he left a stable state to his four successors.

Year Two

The Breakdown of the Roman Republic, 88-31 BC
Examining the events that led to the rise of the emperors studied in the first year, with a particular focus on the life and times of Julius Caesar.

Alexander the Great
Examining the life and times of one of the greatest figures of antiquity, including the career of his father, Philip of Macedon.        


Trips
We often visit Greece or Rome and visit UK locations such as the British Museum or Roman Chester.

Method of delivery

In-College delivery is supported by online resources, and students develop strong independent learning skills to equip them for their next steps.

How will I be assessed?

This course is 100% exam based.

Good course combinations

Ancient History can be taken alongside either Modern or Late Medieval & Early Modern History and works well with English. It also makes a stimulating fourth subject alongside any combination.

Your next steps

You should consider studying A Level History if you intend to take a degree in history or a closely related subject such as politics, or if you intend to follow a course in higher education for which history is a suitable preparation (such as law).

Past students have gone into careers in law, teaching and museum curation.

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