The Humanities subjects include a broad range of subjects to do with human culture, including Geography, History and Religious Studies as well as Politics and Economics plus many more.

1) Why study the Humanities?

Not many people understand the essence of the study of Humanities and how it relates to our present, past and future way of life. Studying Humanities at Downe House exposed me to the extent of how the universe has evolved from the beginning of time to date. The spectrum of the study is so wide and so broad, yet simple and extremely interesting. I barely knew anything about Humanities when I first came in Remove but now, I have learnt so much. Humanities has something for everyone, whether you’re artistic, you’re a keen ecologist, want to learn about different cultures or you want to understand more about the economy and the global political scene. Humanities covers all of this and more. Humanities allows you to express your opinions and views and it allows subjectivity, so there is no right or wrong answer.

2) Which Humanities subjects do I study up to GCSE?

From the Remove to Upper Fourth, the three core humanities, Geography, History and Religious Studies (RS), are all taught. Throughout this period of time, girls learn about different religions from Christianity and Islam to Buddhism and Hinduism, allowing students to broaden their horizons to new cultures. Humanities subjects are not only exciting in and of themselves, but when paired with our enthusiastic and passionate teachers, it is hard not want to explore more. Humanities teachers at Downe House ensure that each lesson is engaging through group projects, documentaries, games, interactive board activities and artistic preps. I personally found Humanities very intriguing and this led me to take both RS and History at GCSE. As someone who was not very creative before, Humanities allowed me to hone my creative mind and learn how to interpret things better and much more clearly.

3) What about in Sixth Form?

In Sixth Form, girls tailor their learning to focus on the subjects that they wish to pursue in the future. The options are extended to include Politics, Economics, Business Studies, History of Art and RS at A Level and some elements of philosophy are included. Such a wide range of subjects mean that there is something there for everyone.

4) Do you get to go on trips?

Aside from that, the Humanities departments always have the most exciting trips lined up. Whether it is visiting a Hindu temple or the bi-annual trips to Russia and the USA. I was lucky enough to go on the History trip to Russia, and it was an amazing experience! Not only were we able to see the principal historical sites in Russia, but I was able to spend a week in a foreign country with my friends. Geography and History are also included in the Lower Fourth term in France programme, with visits to pre-historic caves and hilltop castles as part of the curriculum.