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13/07/25

A huge congratulations to the 830 students who finished the year with above 95% attendance and especially the 79 students with 100% attendance. Enjoy your Summer Break and we look forward to seeing you all in September! pic.twitter.com/FSLI8oet7M— Valley Park School () July 13, 2025

12/07/25

Students in Borneo arrived safely and have been visiting loads of local hot spots!#wearehavingfunandlearningtoo pic.twitter.com/qagWP9d9fK— Valley Park School () July 12, 2025

11/07/25

Nominate Valley Park to win £1000 for the library! You could also win a £100 National Book Token for yourself! https://t.co/lrQWdGa0Qz pic.twitter.com/xvcg6zk8lZ— Valley Park School () July 11, 2025

11/07/25

Well done to the budding young writers who entered the Grim Tales National Writing Competition. Their work will be published later this year, and we couldn’t be prouder of their achievements! Ms Carr and the English department pic.twitter.com/ir9Upca4gI— Valley Park School () July 11, 2025

10/07/25

Year 7 and 8 parents - we need uniform donations for our SHUSH (second hand uniform shop), especially Trousers, Skirts, Blouses, Shirts, Ties, and Blazers. Please visit our website for details: https://t.co/YTbbYuX3ID pic.twitter.com/vWu2xp0Zdt— Valley Park School () July 10, 2025

10/07/25

60 students attended a smaller Transition event to prepare them for the main induction. The took part in group activities to help them get to know each other, and were awarded certificates at the end of the day. We hope our new Year 7s have a wonderful Summer!#wearevalleypark pic.twitter.com/VSGtLJMfzX— Valley Park School () July 10, 2025

10/07/25

Year 8 students showcased their ambitious science projects in the hall, captivating the audience with innovative experiments & bold investigations. Their outstanding presentations reflected their passion and hard work, representing Science at Valley Park with excellence. pic.twitter.com/wxyEro4mgG— Valley Park School () July 10, 2025

09/07/25

There are still tickets for 13Jr, our musical production at the Hazlitt Theatre! Don't miss out on this end of year treat. https://t.co/fefcFXEaQh pic.twitter.com/mSDmNZLkvR— Valley Park School () July 9, 2025

09/07/25

Here's some book ideas for reading through the Summer holidays!#wearevalleypark pic.twitter.com/iKgRAVtwyl— Valley Park School () July 9, 2025

06/07/25

There are many reasons why a student might struggle with attendance at school. Valley Park has a dedicated team to help & support you. To speak to someone, contact us by phone or email & a member of the attendance team will get back to you. pic.twitter.com/MpOCCasUkd— Valley Park School () July 6, 2025

05/07/25

Ashura holds different meanings for Sunni and Shia Muslims. Sunnis celebrate it as the day Moses parted the Red Sea & the salvation of the Israelites. For Shias, it is a day of mourning for Husayn ibn Ali's martyrdom, the Prophet Muhammad's grandson. pic.twitter.com/3wtiRS2P3N— Valley Park School () July 5, 2025

04/07/25

House Points update... pic.twitter.com/xCVrxTMdeU— Valley Park School () July 4, 2025

04/07/25

We welcomed our new year 7 students for their transition day yesterday. Ms Flannery, their Head of Year, is really excited to get to know each and every one of them!#wearevalleyparktransition pic.twitter.com/7w7fSW2EzP— Valley Park School () July 4, 2025

01/07/25

Celebrating year 7 student Max, who has achieved the new rank of a Colour Sergeant. On Friday, Max attended the Headcorn aerodrome with his commandant and was invited to the MBC Mayor's lunch, which helped kick-start the Battle of Britain airshow. Well done Max! pic.twitter.com/7QojNXgj9s— Valley Park School () July 1, 2025

29/06/25

58% of Year 7-11 pupils who missed school at the start of the year went on to miss at least 10% of sessions across the whole academic year. Fischer Family Trust#everylessoncounts#wearevalleypark pic.twitter.com/7n6HO97RfS— Valley Park School () June 29, 2025

27/06/25

House points update... pic.twitter.com/0IwMxWJkas— Valley Park School () June 27, 2025

27/06/25

The Feast of the Sacred Heart is a prominent Roman Catholic devotion, symbolising Jesus' Divine love for humanity through His physical heart. It emphasises the unmitigated love, compassion, and long-suffering of the heart of Christ towards humanity. pic.twitter.com/gX6mUi5Bgw— Valley Park School () June 27, 2025

27/06/25

Hannah and Jasmine, Valley Park students and Bearsted Football Club Under-15s players, were invited to watch the England Lionesses train at St George’s Park recently, as they prepare for the upcoming UEFA EURO tournament! 🦁🦁🦁 pic.twitter.com/I3qKXhxrVg— Valley Park School () June 27, 2025

27/06/25

On Tuesday 24 June Valley Park Shakespeare Society performed an extract from The Merchant of Venice as part of the RSC associate school project. Despite morning rain, the outdoor performance at Samphire Hoe was a success. pic.twitter.com/BhS7FeuO7R— Valley Park School () June 27, 2025

26/06/25

It's V in the Park on Saturday 28 June from Midday - don't miss this fabulous annual music event on the Valley Park Field.#wearevalleypark#wearevinthepark pic.twitter.com/2aIZIEmmwP— Valley Park School () June 26, 2025

22/06/25

There are many reasons why a student might struggle with attendance at school. Valley Park has a dedicated team to help & support you. To speak to someone, contact us by phone or email & a member of the attendance team will get back to you. pic.twitter.com/rXhg7UfxGN— Valley Park School () June 22, 2025

20/06/25

Our newest Sixth Formers started today – say hello to our 9 new chicks! Our Sixth Formers are learning about responsibility in Personal Development, and as part of this, are responsible for incubating, feeding, cleaning and watering our new arrivals! pic.twitter.com/DD70VvVM6f— Valley Park School () June 20, 2025

20/06/25

We have 3 amazing shows for you during this year's Arts Week: Dance Extravaganza, Romeo & Juliet, and 13 The Musical. If you want to buy tickets, please visit: https://t.co/IJpO06PN4T pic.twitter.com/sTiaIFVr0m— Valley Park School () June 20, 2025

20/06/25

The Feast of Corpus Christi, meaning "Body of Christ," is a Catholic celebration honouring Christ's presence in the Eucharist. It features processions with the Blessed Sacrament, showing public faith and devotion, with special prayers and hymns. pic.twitter.com/ADjMgCm067— Valley Park School () June 19, 2025

19/06/25

Tomorrow's exams...#examupdate#wearevalleypark pic.twitter.com/5aeKoYoN0b— Valley Park School () June 19, 2025

History

Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in History

The new specification for A Level has been designed to engage students with the study of history. Through a wide range of topics students are encouraged to analyse interpretations as well as sources, focusing on both breadth and depth studies. They will also develop the ability to ask relevant, significant questions about the past.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

  • GCSE History: Grade 5
  • GCSE English Language or Literature: Grade 5

RECOMMENDED SUBJECT COMBINATIONS

English Literature

Psychology

Criminology

Performing Arts

Geography

Philosophy & Ethics

Politics

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • Essay-based subject; expect lots of writing.
  • Prepare to read wider than the course prescribed content.
  • A variety of homework tasks ranging from essays to critical assessments of sources and interpretations.
  • Challenge your preconceptions and argue about causes, consequences, change & continuity.

UNITS STUDIED

  • Paper 1H: Britain Transformed, 1918-97
  • Paper 2H.2: USA, Challenge and Conformity, 1955-1991
  • Paper 3: Britain, losing and gaining an Empire, 1763-1914

Specification

HOW IT IS ASSESSED

  • 3 terminal examinations at end of year 13 (80% of your grade). 
  • Paper 1G: Germany and West Germany, 1918-89. 
  • Paper 2G.1: The Rise and Fall of Fascism in Italy. 
  • Paper 3, Option 30: Lancastrians, Yorkists and Henry VII. 
  • Coursework module (20% of final grade).

TRANSFERABLE SKILLS

  • Critical thinking and argument skills.
  • Analyse and evaluate interpretations and historical sources. 
  • Apply knowledge to critically assess sources. 
  • Discussion and debate.

PROGRESSION

  • Complements future studies in the Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences and Law faculties at university.
  • Access to job roles requiring the analysis and presentation of data.
  • Independent research & critical analysis skills are looked upon favourably by a wide range of employers, e.g. those in Journalism, Psychology, Law, Politics, Social Care, Archeology, Museum curation & academia.

WHY CHOOSE THIS SUBJECT?

Studying history is essential for students because it provides a deeper understanding of the world, promotes critical thinking, and fosters a more informed and engaged society. There are several key reasons why history is invaluable in education:  

Understanding the Present and Predicting the Future

History helps students see how past events shape current society, politics, and culture. By studying the successes and failures of previous societies, students gain insights into why things are the way they are today. This perspective can even guide predictions about how current events might unfold, helping students develop a more nuanced understanding of the world.  

Learning from Mistakes and Triumphs

History offers countless examples of both great achievements and devastating errors. By learning about these, students can identify patterns that lead to success or failure. This helps individuals and societies avoid repeating past mistakes and instead replicate what has worked well, like upholding democratic principles or addressing issues of injustice.  

Developing Critical Thinking and Analysis Skills

When students study history, they learn to evaluate sources, distinguish between fact and opinion, and assess bias. These skills are transferable and enhance their ability to think critically in other fields. Analyzing historical events trains students to approach complex problems with a mindset that considers multiple perspectives, an invaluable asset in any career.  

Cultivating Empathy and Understanding

History exposes students to the experiences of people from diverse backgrounds, eras, and places, fostering empathy and a deeper appreciation of human diversity. This awareness of different cultures, struggles, and achievements helps students become more open-minded and respectful, essential qualities in our interconnected world.  

Building Civic Awareness and Responsibility

Understanding history encourages students to participate actively and responsibly in their communities. By studying the history of democratic movements, civil rights, and global conflicts, students see the importance of civic engagement and learn how they can contribute to societal progress.  

Inspiring and Empowering Individuals

History is filled with inspiring stories of individuals and groups who made a difference, even against great odds. Learning about these figures can be motivating, showing students that they, too, have the potential to make a positive impact. Figures like Rosa Parks, Mahatma Gandhi, and Malala Yousafzai remind students that ordinary people can shape the world.  

Improving Research and Communication Skills

Studying history requires researching topics, organizing information, and communicating findings clearly, whether through essays, presentations, or discussions. These skills are critical in both academic and professional settings, where effective communication and thorough research are often required.  

Connecting to Personal and Cultural Identity

Learning about their own cultural and familial history helps students connect with their identity. By understanding the struggles and triumphs of those who came before them, students gain a sense of pride and belonging that can be empowering. It also encourages respect and interest in the histories of others, enriching their personal sense of identity.  

In short, history is not just a collection of dates and events; it’s a framework through which students learn to think critically, empathize with others, and engage as informed citizens in their communities and the world. It equips them with lessons that are relevant not only in academics but in all areas of life.