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Politics

  • A-Level

The Politics qualification has been designed so that it reflects the demands of a truly modern and evolving political environment in the UK and around the world.

The Politics qualification has been designed so that it reflects the demands of a truly modern and evolving political environment in the UK and around the world.

To study this subject, you'll need Grade 7 GCSE in either History, RS or English Lit/Lang.

Students do not need to have studied Politics at GCSE in order to take the A-Level. Prospective students must possess an active interest in Politics both inside and out of the classroom and it is an expectation that Politics students keep up-to-date with current affairs by reading the news daily.

What you will learn?

In A-Level Politics, you will explore political systems, ideologies, and current affairs, developing your understanding of how power and decision-making shape society.

Course Components

At the beginning of the course you cover explore an overview of the political structure through the UK Constitution. You will then explore the political landscape in greater depth through the study of Parliament, Prime Minister and the relationship between branches.

In Year 13, you explore how individuals engage in the political systems of the UK. You cover the topics Democracy and Participation, Political parties, Electoral systems and Voting behaviour and the media.

Our comparative unit focuses on US Politics and you will learn about the Constitution, Congress, Presidency, Supreme Court and Democracy and Participation. We will also evaluate the similarities between the UK government.

The course also covers some key political ideologies: Socialism, Liberalism, Conservatism and Feminism

Skills you will develop

Political Analysis

Understanding how political systems, institutions, and ideologies operate.

Critical Thinking

Evaluating political arguments, debates, and policies.

Essay Writing

Constructing clear, evidence-based political arguments.

Source Evaluation

Analysing political speeches, documents, and data.

Students who study this subject, often have these careers...

Political Analyst

Researches and analyses political trends, policies, and current events to provide insights and recommendations to decision-makers.

Journalist

Researching, writing, and reporting news and information for various media platforms.

Civil Servant

Supporting the government in policy development and implementation, and delivering public services.

How is this Subject Assessed?

3 Written, Long Answer Exams

Edexcel

Written Examination

2hrs

UK Politics and Core Political Ideas

Written Examination

2hrs

UK Government and Non-Core Political Ideas

Written Examination

2hrs

Government and Politics of the USA

Who will teach you?

Miss M Stephenson

Head of Politics

Mr P Smith

Teacher of Politics

Students who study this subject, often get accepted at...

The University of Manchester

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The University of York

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The University of Amsterdam

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Students who study this subject, often also study...

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Psychology

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Sociology

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  • AS Level