Having spent time last week looking at the proposed GCSE specifications and assessment materials for OCR/SHP and Edexcel, here I repeat the exercise for the AQA and OCR /A courses. Whilst reading the materials and quaffing tea, I was attempting to look at the proposals through a number of lenses: how[…]
GCSE
Review of new GCSE History 2016 proposed specifications OCR/SHP and Edexcel
Like the geek that I am, this week I sat down and looked at the draft specifications from the main exam boards for their new GCSE history courses. After many cups of tea, lots of head scratching and 2 empty printing cartridges I decided that there were pros and cons[…]
The Proposed History National Curriculum – where are we now?
You have got to love Simon Schama. Not only does he spin a great historical yarn, he is also clearly on the side of history teachers. “Insulting and offensive”, “pedantic and utopian” and a “ridiculous shopping list” of topics, are just a few of the terms he used at the Hay[…]
A matter of principle
All is quiet. It’s been nearly a month and the government haven’t announced any drastic changes to the school structure, teaching conditions, curriculum or examination system? However, with the half term then Christmas holidays soon to be upon us, there is still plenty of time for new announcements . To[…]
O Levels: ‘Just a distratction from the omnishambles’?
I nearly crashed the car this morning when I heard the news that Mr Gove has plans to re-introduce o level style exams. After I had re gained control of the wheel I checked the date. To my surprise it wasn’t April 1st. Let’s be clear. GCSE history is not[…]