History continues to play an important part in the school syllabus. A variety of methods is used to inspire pupils and to give them some idea about their past. Throughout the pupils are taught to express themselves in both speech and writing and to improve their reading skills.
In Form I Roman, Saxon and Viking Britain is studied. The ancient civilisations of Egypt and Greece are the main topics in Form II, with some emphasis put on legends. In addition a local study based on Nacton and Orwell Park is undertaken. In Form III the emphasis shifts to Britain. One term is spent on exploration with a special study being made on the Aztec civilisation. Here the pupils are encouraged to discover for themselves and to use as many sources as possible.
The study of British History continues in Form IV. For two terms 1700-1900 is covered, with the emphasis this time being on the social side. In the third term the Great War is looked at in some detail, the study concluding with a visit to Ypres.
In Form V a term is spent covering the twentieth century from 1919. Part of the work involves the presentation of a project by each pupil. After this preparation for CE begins. Over five terms the topic Medieval Realms: Britain 1066-1500 is the chosen paper. This involves studying certain topics in preparation for an essay question and developing the skills required to answer the document question, which is always on a known topic.
The scholarship syllabus is wider. The course begins by teaching about documents, developing discussion skills and encouraging criticism and analysis. Later the emphasis moves on to greater knowledge, particularly of the Tudor period.
Visits and field work are considered essential, and every year group has at least one such visit to a variety of historical sites.
Brian Hunt