Our humanities courses at Hampstead Fine Arts College offer students the ability to continue to develop their learning of subjects with which they may already be familiar, or to embark upon the study of a new subject. At GCSE we offer History, Geography, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation.
Students usually choose one or two humanities to combine with subjects from the arts, sciences, and creative areas to create a broad GCSE programme. These subjects contribute greatly to the students’ general knowledge and can lead them to discover a new interest that in turn may become a later specialism at A level or beyond.
In addition, students discover that there are connections between humanities and other subjects. Knowledge of the Greek myths can add insight to texts studied in English Literature for example and understanding Ancient History can explain the origins of modern democracy and tragedy in the theatre. Spotting these connections can be an exciting moment for students, moving them to the next level in understanding the relevance of education.
Universities and employers are of course impressed if a broad range of subjects are studied at GCSE.
Classical Civilisation
Classical Civilisation GCSE gives students the chance to study both Greece and Rome. If you are interested in mythology, the stories of heroes and the gods, then this is the subject for you.
In addition, we examine the position of women in the ancient world, in very different societies from our own.
We also study the Odyssey, the story of how Odysseus struggled to get home after the Trojan War, and the archaeology of the Mycenaean kingdoms that fought at Troy.
OCR
History
Our iGCSE History course focuses on international relations in the 20th Century, as well as the fascinating history of Nazi Germany.
The course offers a compelling window into the forces that shaped our present. By exploring pivotal events and people, students gain crucial context for understanding the modern world. From inflation and trade tariffs to political extremism, superpower relations and regional wars, the history of the 20th Century has never been more relevant.
This course fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, promotes high levels of literacy, and empowers students to navigate and interpret the complexities of the modern world.
CIE
Geography
In essence, Geography is the study of place and Geographers aim to understand, predict and explain the processes that makes places change.
Geography GCSE covers all the traditional themes of Geography, but it has a contemporary edge – drawing evidence from current events. It also has a field work element through which students learn the conventional skills to investigate places and analyse a contemporary issue facing the UK.
Edexcel
Media Studies
Students study various media industries, such as the newspaper industry, advertising, magazines, the film industry and the music industry. They will learn about the evolution of sitcoms, studying ‘Modern Family’ and ‘Friends’ in detail. The course also includes a 30% coursework component, which requires students to design their own magazine cover or create their own music video. We teach the key skills required for analysing any media product in this exciting and fast-changing area: media language, representation, audiences and context.
Eduqas
Religious Studies
GCSE Religious Studies students get a chance to learn about both eastern and western religions. First students learn about Buddhism and the life and ethics of the Buddha, what he meant by enlightenment and how it influences people today. Secondly students learn about the beliefs of Christians and how we should understand who Jesus was and his message. Finally, students get a chance to ask the big questions, around ethics and philosophy. For example, we ask is there a God? Should we allow euthanasia? Should we eat animals and use them for experimentation?
AQA
Higher Project Qualification (HPQ)
The HPQ programme offers students the opportunity to research and create a project on a subject of their choice. This project can be presented in various forms, including an essay, an artefact, or a performance. At Fine Arts we are connecting the HPQ with the History of Art programme, allowing students to explore and deepen their understanding of art history through their independent research and creative projects.
With guidance and support, you’ll develop vital skills in independent research, project management, and critical thinking, all while showcasing your ability to work autonomously.
The qualification is equivalent to half a GCSE.
AQA
