We have recently reviewed our GCSE History specification for sensitivity of language and identified a number of terms which are now considered outdated and problematic. We have therefore decided to update some of the language in our specification. The changes will come into effect for first teaching September 2023, first assessment Summer 2025. We intend to release Issue 4 of the Specification and Sample Assessment Materials to reflect these changes in late Summer 2023.

You can find a summary of the changes in language in the document below which includes track changes:

The following document explains the rationale for making these changes in detail:

These FAQs explain the rationale for the changes and how they will be reflected in examinations, as well as offering further support for teachers.

Further support

We will be running a live online event on Tuesday 5 September 2023, to run through the changes in a bit more detail and for you to ask questions and give us your feedback. You can book a place on this event by searching for GCSE History on our training page.

Coming soon: A level History language changes

We will also be updating specific language in our A level History specification and details of these changes will be provided in the Autumn term.

We hope the guidance and rationale for these language changes is clear and comprehensive, however please email me at teachinghistory@pearson.com if you have any questions.