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A-level Ancient History

OCR A-Level
Ancient History involves exploring past civilisations and events that occurred before the Middle Ages. The term "Middle Ages" is commonly used to refer to the time period in Europe from the collapse of the Roman Empire in 476 CE up until the beginning of the Renaissance in the 14th century.
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A-level Ancient History online course

Studying A-level Ancient History can be fascinating for a multitude of reasons. It allows us to understand how civilisations from the past developed, including the growth of social and cultural systems, the spread of religion, trade and the formation of political structures.

At Oxbridge, our online A-level Ancient History course is delivered by an expert team and designed to help you learn in the way that best suits you and that will set you up for success with your future aspirations.

Studying Ancient History allows us to understand the relevance of the past to the present, as it enables us to explore the root causes of modern-day geopolitical and societal issues, as well as current global challenges. Therefore A-level Ancient History can be incredibly engaging because of the abundance of stories, mythologies and characters that populate it. Altogether learning about the triumphs and tragedies of ancient figures such as Julius Caesar, Cleopatra, or Alexander the Great can be informative and entertaining.

What Ancient History Offers

A-level Ancient History opens up a world of opportunity for learners eager to expand their knowledge of the ancient world and goes hand in hand with our A-level History course. By taking the course, students will explore a wide range of topics, including the military, political, religious, social and cultural history of the ancient world.

In-depth knowledge of selected periods of ancient history will give learners the tools to formulate solid arguments and substantiated judgments. Additionally, students will understand Greek and Roman history in the context of neighbouring civilisations and establish critical connections between individuals, issues, identities and societies of the past.

Outcomes

By engaging with scarce historical evidence, students will develop an understanding of the historical periods studied and analytical methods applied to evaluate evidence. The course will also enhance learners’ perception of historical debates and enable them to compare different periods in context within ancient history.

What you will learn

  1. Unit 1 - Relations between Greek states and between Greek and non-Greek states (492 BC- 404 BC)

    • The challenge of the Persian Empire
    • The consequences of the Persian Wars
    • The Archidamian War
    • The outbreak of war
    • The Peloponnesian and Delian Leagues
    • The Battle of Marathon
    • The Battle of Thermopylae
    • The Battle of Plataea
    • The Battle of Mycale
    • The invasions of Attica
    • Athenian and Spartan strategies
    • The Peace of Nicias
    • Relations with Persia in the final years of the War
    • Persia’s impact on the course of the War

  2. Unit 2 - The Politics & Society of Sparta 478 BC - 404 BC

    • Education & values in Sparta
    • The social structure of Sparta
    • The political structure of Sparta
    • Spartan military culture
    • Other States’ views of Sparta

  3. Unit 3 - The Julio-Claudian Emperors 31BC - AD68

    • Augustus
    • Tiberius
    • Gaius
    • Claudius
    • Nero

  4. Unit 4 - The Breakdown of the Late Republic - 88BC - 31BC

    • What is The Late Republic?
    • The Late Republic’s breakdown

  5. Unit 5 - Preparing for the Exams

    • Exam breakdown
    • Greek period study
    • Roman period study

Awarding Body

OCR is a leading UK awarding body. Providing qualifications that engage people of all ages and abilities. The general and vocational qualifications equip learners with the knowledge and skills they need for their future, helping them achieve their full potential. OCR provide GCSE courses and A-Level courses in over 40 subjects.

View our other Oxford, Cambridge and RSA qualifications.

Endorsed by

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This course carries UCAS points. This means that it can be used to gain direct access to university courses and other higher education qualifications, through the UCAS system.

Visit our other UCAS endorsed products

Course Outcome

Upon successfully completing this home learning course, you will receive the qualification: A-level Ancient History, issued by OCR. Your certificate is identical to that issued to students at any other school, college or university.

This syllabus (H407) has been chosen by Oxbridge because it is best suited to distance learning.

How is this course assessed or examined?

You’ll be required to complete two standard A-level Ancient History written exams:

  • Paper 1: 2 hours 30 minutes, 50% of A-level, 98 marks
  • Paper 2: 2 hours 30 minutes, 50% of A-level, 98 marks

These exams contain a mixture of short and long answer questions and extended response questions

Entry requirements

A GCSE or equivalent in History is recommended for this course. This Ancient History A-level syllabus is a difficulty level three: the equivalent difficulty of an A-level or BTEC, which is usually suitable for most learners of all ages.

Course code: X926

A-level Ancient History

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Include exams (+£770)

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My 30-year stride in education started with childminding, to working with pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. I then tutored in a national reading programme and went on to become a Higher-Level TA. I’m elated to say I graduated with a First-Class BA Honours Degree when I was 50 – living proof that it’s never too late to chase your dreams!

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Hi, I’m Cadia; I’m a personal tutor at Oxbridge.

I’m very passionate about Mathematics and what skills it can provide learners with. I firmly beleive that everyone should have a good Maths education as it’s truelly the World’s international language.

I’m a personal tutor for the following subjects:

  • GCSE and A-level Maths
  • A-level Further Maths
  • GCSE Astronomy
  • GCSE Environmental Science
  • Access to Higher Education – Science and Maths modules.

After leaving university I worked in the pharmaceuticals and medical device industry before training as a secondary Science teacher and then subsequently retraining as a Maths teacher.
After leaving mainstream education, I worked in pharmacy apprenticeship provision before joining Oxbridge in 2021.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Oxbridge and I love helping learners to acheive the best outcomes they can. I look forward to supporting you with your online course.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Do you have past papers that I can use to practice for my exams?

Yes! We have GCSE and A-Level past papers. Our past papers cover a variety of subjects and awarding bodies. We are adding more papers all the time.

Can I retake my A-level Ancient History exams if I don’t pass?

You can! At Oxbridge, we also have an exam pass guarantee, meaning that we will support you in taking the next A-level Ancient History exam for free. Contact our advisers for more information.

How can I access my A-level Ancient History course materials?

After you've enrolled onto the A-level Ancient History course, we will send your login information for MyOxbridge, our online learning portal, where your study materials will be ready for you. You'll be able to access your materials at any time, from any computer, laptop, phone, or tablet that has an Internet connection.

How can I contact my A-level Ancient History tutor if I get stuck?

When you enrol on your A-level Ancient History course, you will be sent login details for the MyOxbridge platform, where your tutor's contact email can also be accessed.

Are there any exams for A-level Ancient History?

You will be required to sit two standard exam papers, which both contribute 50% of your total marks. See where your nearest exam centre is here.

How is A-level Ancient History taught online?

A-level Ancient History follows the same OCR H407 syllabus awarded by schools and colleges. You may be expected to complete assessments as part of your studies in order to check your progress, which will be marked by your own personal tutor.

Can I sign up for a Student Beans account and get Student Discounts?

Yes! One of the many benefits of being an Oxbridge student is that you get access to great discounts with a Student Beans account! Eligibility criteria apply and acceptance is made at the discretion of Student Beans. Find out how to sign up.

Can you provide a reference for my UCAS application?

Oxbridge is able to provide an academic reference for you however, we cannot provide a personal reference as this needs to be someone who knows you personally.

Can I get predicted grades for my UCAS application?

Absolutely! We can process a predicted grade for you once you have completed a total of four assignments - this can be sent over to you via email or letter which can then be passed on to UCAS for your application.

Exam Results: I need to resit my exams, can I enrol with Oxbridge?

At Oxbridge, we take enrolments all year round. Once you're enrolled, you'll be able to get started right away. Studying online means your work and revision fit around you and your lifestyle. For example, if you have a part-time job or need to study alongside other subjects, you'll be able to find time to fit our online courses into your schedule. Enjoy flexible, convenient, affordable learning, fully supported by expert tutors who are passionate about their subjects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our course tutors and know that they hold the key to success. Whatever your goals, dreams or aspirations, Oxbridge is here to help you facilitate them.

Exam Results: When will I receive my certificate?

Oxbridge students who sat their exams through our partnership exam centres will usually receive their certificates in November. Certificates will be sent out by recorded delivery.
Wondering what to do next? There are so many options available, it's important to get the right advice. Whether your choice is to continue onto further education, go into job training or get an apprenticeship and whether your grades are high or low - there are always options! Speak to an adviser today to see how we can support you on your next steps...

Exam Results: I didn't pass English or Maths, what do I do next?

First of all, don't worry - everything will be okay. Unfortunately, if you didn't get a grade 4 or higher (equivalent to a C or above) in your English and Maths, you will have to re-take it in order to pass. Oxbridge is ready and available to support you with this. Get in touch via live chat, phone or email.

Exam Results: I have individual unit marks, but no overall grade. What should I do?

Check for a cash-in code on your statement of entry. If there isn't one, cash-in may not have been applied for. Cash-in can be applied for retrospectively from your exam centre and once entered you can expect an overall grade in one week.

Exam Results: I haven't done as well as I expected in my exams. Is there anything I can do?

Yes! There are a number of post-result services available. Your entering centre will be able to provide you with further information and will process any requests for you. If you're not sure where to turn, our friendly learning advisers are on hand and ready to help you.

What can I do with my A-levels?

A-levels are a universal way to demonstrate academic competency in a multitude of disciplines. A-levels are subject-based qualifications that lead to either university, further study, training, or work. A-levels serve as a standardised way to demonstrate your academic ability and are very common entry requirements to most higher-level courses.

Why study an online A-level course from home?

A-levels can be studied from home with Oxbridge, using our online platform. On average we find that students receive 20% higher grades and pass around 30% more quickly than in a traditional college.

How many UCAS points is an A-level course?

A-levels are the most common way to access university in the UK. The system in which this is done is called UCAS. This stands for: “the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service”. See the A-level UCAS tariff points breakdown below:
  • A* - 56
  • A - 48
  • B - 40
  • C - 32
  • D - 24
  • E - 16

What A-Level courses should I take?

If you’re planning on going on to a degree, your chosen university will usually publish their entry requirements for each course on their website. See how these subjects feel and decide if you would enjoy them as they will form much of the base knowledge for your degree. If you’re not entirely sure what to study, there are some standard subjects that many students choose to help them secure a place at a prestigious university, such as one of the Russell Group universities. These courses are known as the ‘facilitating courses’ and include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English Literature, Geography, History, Maths, Further Maths, Modern Languages and Classical Languages. Generally speaking, taking two facilitating subjects will allow you to keep your progression options open. For further help and guidance, we have written a detailed guide on How to Choose A-Levels.

How long does it take to study an A-level?

It’s possible to study an A-level course both full-time and part-time. Normally students would study for two years, but with Oxbridge, you can also fast-track your course to complete it in one year.

What are A-Levels?

A-levels (also known as Advanced level qualifications) entail in-depth study of a chosen subject in order to open doors to further study including University, training, and work. A-levels courses tend to focus on specific academic subjects such as Mathematics, English and the Sciences: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The course material and the exams you take will be the same everywhere.

How much do exams cost?

Many of our courses do not require exams however, A-levels, GCSEs and some other courses do require exams to complete the qualification. Exam fees are additional to the cost of the course and prices vary depending on the course and where you sit them - find out more. Planning on studying A-levels or GCSEs with us? We can add your exams during enrolment and blend them into your monthly payment plan if you wish. If you're not ready to book your exam(s) yet, you can book them at a later date - all of the information is available on MyOxbridge under NEAS and Exams.