Departmental Staff
- Charlene Curran
- Oónagh McArdle
- Des Maginness
- Diarmuid McNulty
- Joanna Hackett
- Anna Nugent
Department Overview
The study of history is about more than simply memorising dates and the deeds of famous figures. History is a chronicle of human behaviour - a real-life drama full of villains and heroes, the mighty and the meek. It examines the circumstances that moved its players to transform people and places (for better and for worse), and it holds the answers to how and why our lives are fashioned the way they are today- from our language, fashion and technology; to our sports, political systems and religious practices. It examines the circumstances that led to the transformation of people and places.
Studying history gives us opportunities to better understand our past and avoid repeating the same mistakes. History holds the answers to how and why our lives are shaped as they are today. Studying history develops the skills of analysis and evaluation, which are essential in decision making. This wide and varied skillset helps students to keep their career options open.
Key Stage 3 - Overview
The history curriculum at Key Stage Three has been designed to give pupils opportunities to explore key political, social and economic events that have helped shape today’s institutions, governments and societies. Pupils study and evaluate a wide range of topics and learn how the actions of government and key individuals have impacted on society and the world. They explore the values, attitudes, perceptions and ideologies that have shaped human behaviour, endeavour and achievement in the past.
An exciting introduction to history in Year 8 is marked by an in-depth study of the Normans; pupils will explore the significance of the Battle of Hastings 1066 and the subsequent Norman conquest of Britain and Ireland. Year 9 explores Ireland throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. A thorough exploration of Unionism and Nationalism raises key political issues of the day such as Home Rule, culminating in the Easter Rising 1916 and the subsequent partition of the island of Ireland.
Key Stage Three concludes with an interesting in-depth study of the key events and significant moments marking the 20th century with an exploration of both World Wars and the consequences on the modern world.
Key Stage 4 - Overview
Skills Developed
History naturally allows students to think independently and critically. Historians become adept at analysing material, speaking confidently, writing, and reaching conclusions that are well thought out and can be supported. Skills of developing and defending a personal point of view are continually advanced.
History is an enjoyable and fun subject to learn that allows students to better understand the past and the world around them today.
Post 16
The A Level History specification gives students the chance to explore major political, economic and social developments that have shaped
modern institutions, governments and societies. It deepens understanding of domestic and international affairs from the 20th century to the present.
Skills Developed
Students build strengths in:
- Selecting, recalling and clearly communicating historical knowledge
- Presenting well-reasoned explanations and reaching supported judgements
- Interpreting, using and evaluating historical sources
Career Opportunities
A Level History equips students with widely transferable skills valued across many professions. It was ranked number 8 in ‘The Most Respected A-Level Subjects for 2022’ by Think Student. Former students have progressed into degrees such as Architecture, Business Management, Physiotherapy, Environmental Health, Journalism, Sociology, Law, Government, Sports Science, Teaching, Computer Science, Engineering,Environmental studies, Estate Management, Geography-related fields, Media, Medicine, Meteorology, Planning, Surveying and more. This broad range highlights the versatility and adaptability of History as a subject.Skills Developed
Students build strengths in:
- Selecting, recalling and clearly communicating historical knowledge
- Presenting well-reasoned explanations and reaching supported judgements
- Interpreting, using and evaluating historical sources
Course Summary
| Content | Assessment | Weighting |
| AS 1: Historical Investigations and Interpretations |
External written examination 1 ½ hours |
50% of AS 20% of A level |
| AS 2: Historical Conflict and Change | External written examination 1 ½ hours |
50% of AS 20% of A level |
| A2 1: Change Over Time | External written examination 1 ½ hours |
20% of A level |
| A2 2: Historical Investigations and Interpretations |
External written examination 2 ½ hours |
40% of A level |
Beyond the Classroom
At Christian Brothers Grammar School, we believe learning beyond the classroom is essential for transforming abstract textbook concepts into real, memorable experiences, thereby increasing engagement and empathy.
Allowing pupils to engage actively with material can foster growth, development, and deeper understanding of events. Year 10 pupils enjoy visits by ‘Holding History’; where interactive sessions bring an array of original artefacts to our school. A fascinating variety of deactivated weapons, equipment and documents were made available for pupil inspection and handling.
Exam pupils annually attend ‘Generation2Generation’ talks, to enhance their study of the Holocaust. G2G was established to empower Holocaust survivor descendants to present their family histories to a variety of audiences. Trips to Stormont Parliament Buildings, help consolidate the A2 study of ‘Partition of Ireland 1905-1925’, as pupils explore the beginnings of Northern Ireland.
Similarly, GCSE pupils annually visit the city of Derry to gain historical insight to the complex nature of the city, in line with their Year 11 study of the ‘Troubles'.
History Yr12-14 Holocaust Talk Jan 2026
History Omagh Academy Conference March 26
History A Level Trip Stormont Feb 2026
HISTORY YEAR 11 TRIP DERRY JUNE 2026
