Teacher Blog: Focus on History
History at West Buckland School: Understanding the Present Through the Past
How can we hope to make sense of the modern world without understanding the forces that shaped it? Today’s most urgent global crises, the conflict in Ukraine, continuing tensions in the Middle East, and the long legacy of involvement in Afghanistan, did not emerge spontaneously. They are the product of centuries of shifting borders, political decisions, ideological struggles and unresolved historical narratives.
At West Buckland School, we firmly believe that history is not just a subject, it’s a lens through which students learn to interpret the world. Whether examining the origins of democracy, the rise and fall of empires, or the changing nature of conflict, students are encouraged to ask critical questions:
Why did this happen?
What were the alternatives?
And what might this mean for the future?
Take China, for example. Over the past 3,000 years, China has spent long periods as the world’s most prosperous and technologically advanced civilisation. Today, debates surrounding China’s economic and political rise are central to global affairs. History gives students the tools to understand how China transformed itself from one of the poorest countries in the world to one of the richest.
Outstanding Academic Achievement
Our academic results reflect both the passion of our students and the expertise of our staff. Last year’s A-Level cohort achieved an outstanding 87% A–B*, continuing a long trend of excellence within the department. Students at WBS don’t just learn historical facts, they learn how to think like historians.
A Highly Experienced Department
The department benefits from an exceptional depth of expertise. Our Head of Department holds a doctorate in military history and is a published author, including:
- The American Occupation of Australia, 1941–45: A Marriage of Necessity
- “War and Time Preference: The American Army in Australia” (Mises Institute)
This level of academic scholarship brings university‑level insight directly into the classroom, enriching lessons with specialist knowledge, primary source expertise, and a genuine love of the subject.
We also offer a weekly drop‑in session, where students can seek help, regarding historical understanding and exam technique. It’s a supportive space where curiosity is encouraged and deeper questions are welcomed.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
History comes alive when students experience it firsthand. The department has a proud tradition of leading enriching trips, including:
- Russia
- Turkey
- World War I Battlefields
- Berlin and Krakow
- Dunster Castle (Year 8 Civil War study trip)
This year, we are looking forward to an exciting journey to Berlin and Krakow, where students will explore key sites linked to the Cold War and the Holocaust. These experiences deepen students’ understanding, foster empathy, and help them connect historical learning with real places and real people.
Why Study History? Skills That Shape the Future!
History is about more than understanding past events, it cultivates skills that are valued by employers across all sectors. Through the GCSE and A‑Level curriculum, students learn how to:
- Construct clear, well‑reasoned arguments
- Evaluate contrasting interpretations
- Cross-reference multiple sources
- Communicate with precision and confidence
These are transferable skills that open pathways into a wide range of careers, including law, government, finance, journalism, teaching, business leadership and more.
As we often say:
When students ask why study history, the department often cites billionaire investor Jim Rogers “Study history very carefully. Learn precisely what happened and what did not. This will help you understand what is about to happen in the world.”
