History has always been a very popular subject at Easington Academy because of the interesting topics we teach such as 'history mysteries' and the 'Easington pit disaster'.

We allow students to go away and research facts for themselves to then make their own presentations, projects etc. Having an opportunity to be able to have their own opinions is very appealing to teenagers and they are encouraged to do so in History.

The skills used; such as researching, making judgements, analysing facts, debating etc, will enable our students to develop into active social people who can contribute successfully to society and move into many different employment opportunities where they will have the confidence to progress and become anything they want to be.

Year 7 and 8

History is taught in Year 7 and 8 with the aim to encourage students to think independently and critically question their own heritage and the world we live in today. In preparation for GCSE we develop historical enquiry skills through a series of research projects in which the students own thoughts and findings are presented to their peers and judged by those peers. Throughout the program of study we enhance the opportunities to master skills in literacy, numeracy and ICT and promote creative thinking. Teaching strategies have been adapted to suit all types of learners making history enjoyable and accessible to all students.

I enjoy History because we can include our own opinions and no-one is ever wrong. I also enjoy how the teachers make it interesting to learn whatever the topic is.
Year 8 student

Year 9,10 and 11


GCSE in history

Course content/areas of study

You will acquire a wide range of historical skills through your investigation into the following topics:

  • Crime and punishment through the ages
  • Nazi Germany: The American West


Examinations x 3 25% each at the end of the course

Controlled assessment 25%

Core or option

Option subject

Number of option choices


Number of GCSEs/equivalent

I like history because it’s a way of understanding the past, knowing what happened and all the weird and mysterious things people did. I like putting myself in their shoes.
Year 8 student