History

Why study History at The Perse?

History at The Perse is about understanding how the modern world has been shaped by people, ideas and events of the past. Pupils learn to question evidence, evaluate competing interpretations and how to construct balanced, well-reasoned arguments. In an increasingly complex world, these habits of critical thinking are as important as the historical knowledge itself.

Thinking like a historian

History challenges pupils to become investigators rather than simply learners of facts. Through discussion, debate and the analysis of contemporary sources, they explore topics ranging from Medieval kingdoms and religious change to revolutions, World Wars and modern political movements.

Pupils are encouraged to ask difficult questions, challenge assumptions and consider different perspectives. In doing so, they develop the intellectual curiosity, analytical skills and independence of thought that lie at the heart of any historical enquiry.

Beyond the classroom

The study of History extends far beyond lessons. Pupils can participate in the History Society, attend pupil-led lectures and debates, and take part in the popular History Board Games Society.

Educational visits bring the subject to life, including the First World War battlefields, Berlin, St Paul’s Cathedral and a wide range of museums and historical sites. These experiences enable pupils to engage directly with the places, artefacts and landscapes that have shaped historical events.

Skills for life

History equips pupils with skills that are valued far beyond the classroom. They learn to analyse complex information, evaluate evidence, communicate persuasively and construct clear, logical arguments.

These skills underpin success in a wide range of subjects and careers, from law, politics and journalism to business, science, medicine and engineering. Above all, History teaches pupils how to think critically, independently and with confidence.

Recent highlights

The History Department consistently achieves some of the strongest GCSE results in the country and regularly ranks among the highest-performing schools nationally.

Perse pupils have also enjoyed success in national history essay competitions and undertaken ambitious independent historical research. Students are regularly amongst those who gain the top marks nationally across a variety of GCSE exam papers.