Skip to main content

19 May 2020

New online resources support students preparing for university

The 'Schools Network' introduces a taste of degree-level study for prospective students thinking of applying to the Department of History in 2020–21.

Student smiling at computer

The Department of History at King’s College London is delighted to announce the launch of the Schools Network, a set of new online resources aimed at sixth-form students currently studying at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

These self-guided learning materials provide a stimulating and structured introduction to the topics taught in the Department of History, based on the undergraduate curriculum but adapted for pre-university learners. The resources provide year 12 students with a taste of what it is like to undertake degree-level study before applying to King's, while also meeting the requirements of year 13 students who are preparing for university. 

Materials include PowerPoint presentations with audio commentary, developed and delivered by a vibrant community of historians. Students can also download worksheets which highlight key terms and concepts and offer questions for critical thinking and writing, they also receive suggested reading lists and further online research activities.

Example materials from the Schools Network
Example materials from the Schools Network

The four topics currently available online are Peasant Lives in Early Modern Europe (presented by Professor Adam Sutcliffe); Dealing with the Past in Northern Ireland (presented by Dr Conor Morrissey); The Trial of Charles I (presented by Dr Joan Redmond) and British Elections Before the Great Reform Act (presented by Professor Arthur Burns), with more topics to be added soon.

We have developed these learning materials in consultation with the teachers in our 'Schools Network', who have helped us maximise their usefulness for sixth-formers. While our immediate priority is to support these students and their teachers in these difficult times, we also hope that this resource will be enduringly useful. These online materials provide a preview of degree-level study in History, and should help future generations of students in deciding whether this is the right option for them, and in easing their transition from school to university.

Professor Adam Sutcliffe, Schools Liaison Lead in the King’s History Department

To explore the online resources and for a unique insight into the Department, please visit the Schools Network webpage.

Related links