Politics - A Level

Do you enjoy a stimulating and dynamic subject which investigates topical issues and controversies that affect our everyday lives? Politics helps us understand how the British political system works,as well as developing an understanding of the core ideologies of liberalism, conservatism and socialism and another important ideology, multiculturalism.

Studying politics will uncover how the government makes decisions and crucially, what impact we can have on those making them.

In the first year, students investigate the concepts and institutions that underline the British System of Government and the core and non-core ideologies:

Unit 1: UK Politics

• Political participation – democracy, political parties, electoral systems, voting behaviour and the media 
• Core political ideas – liberalism, conservatism and socialism

Unit 2: UK Government

• UK Government – UK constitution, Parliament, Prime Minister and Executive, relationships between institutions 
• Optional non-core political ideas – multiculturalism

In the second year, students will study comparative politics. they will study the politics of the USA and aspects such as

• US Constitution 
• Federalism 
• US Congress 
• US Presidency 
• US Supreme Court 
• Democracy 
• Civil Rights

Lessons contain a mixture of lively debate, exposure to new ideas and close analysis of current affairs as they take place.

No previous experience of Politics is required. An interest in current affairs and a desire to explore new ideas is essential. Students need to be willing to work hard and be able to plan their own learning.

Most students begin studying Politics having never studied the subject before: this is not a disadvantage. However, a willingness to find out about contemporary politics is essential. Students should genuinely enjoy the following:

• Reading and keeping up-to-date with Politics 
• Developing and analysing different points-of-view in writing 
• Discussion 
• In-depth study of both the British and American Political systems

This course will help students to develop a range of analytical, investigative and creative skills which they will be able to use in whatever career path they choose.

The exam board for this A Level is Pearson Edexcel.

Course Specific Trips & Visits

The College offers a number of educational experiences each year to enable students to contextualise their learning. These experiences include trips, visiting speakers and residentials. In February 2019 the current History students will be visiting Beijing in China and in October 2019, students will be able to go on a trip to the USA visiting New York and Washington DC.

Students will need a satisfactory school reference and also meet the following minimum GCSE requirement:

• Grade 5 in English Literature or History, if taken