Government and Politics

Course summary

WHY SHOULD I STUDY A LEVEL POLITICS? This is a very exciting time to study both British and International politics. There has been considerable turbulence in British politics after the Brexit Referendum in 2016, the general elections of 2017 and 2019, and the debates surrounding Brexit. Likewise, in international relations, there is a new US President, China is increasing its power, Russia is seeking to play more of a global role and there are significant global challenges like climate change, growing protection in trade and inequalities in income and wealth. The course is entirely relevant in an ever-changing world. You will be inspired to engage in lively and informed debate. If you are intrigued, excited or worried about the changes that are happening in the world today, this is the course for you. The Politics specification covers UK government and politics, political ideas and comparative global politics. Politics is a well-established and well-respected Level, that develops literacy, critical thinking, analysis and research skills. It goes well with History, Economics, Sociology, Psychology and Law, but other subjects as well. Studying A Level Politics shows that you care about the world you live in, and you will develop knowledge and understanding of the role politics plays in current local, national and global issues. The politics staff at the College are predominantly subject specialists with many years of combined politics teaching experience. Staff are experienced classroom teachers and have contributed to textbooks published resources, and have examining experience. COURSE CONTENT The first year of the course consists of two components: UK Politics – Students will study: • Democracy and Participation. • Political Parties. • Electoral Systems. • Voting Behaviour and the Media. UK Government – Students will study: • The Constitution. • Parliament. • Prime Minister and Executive. • Relationships between Institutions. • Core Political Ideas – Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism.