A focused and engaging GCSE History lesson examining the enquiry question:
What led to the downfall of Thomas Cromwell in 1540?

Designed for Edexcel GCSE Tudor England, this lesson explores the dramatic fall of Henry VIII’s chief minister through court faction, religion, royal favour, and political mistakes. Students analyse why Cromwell’s rise from humble origins made him vulnerable and how factors such as the Anne of Cleves marriage, religious policy, and noble opposition combined to seal his fate.

The lesson places strong emphasis on causation, helping students distinguish between long-term causes and trigger causes — a key skill for GCSE “Explain why” questions.

I use this lesson as a core causation lesson in the Henry VIII unit or as preparation for “Explain why” exam questions.

See my shop for more GCSE History resources, including lessons on Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, the Reformation, and exam-focused writing skills.