Politics
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Politics is a very well-respected subject by universities. The Politics course enables you to have an understanding of the world around you and to engage with the news and current affairs in an informed and aware manner. The Politics course also helps you to develop many important skills which are an advantage in any job such as explanation and analysis, evaluating evidence, forming substantiated judgements and argumentation. Politics is a good choice for students who are considering a career in law. It can also be beneficial for many other future areas of employment such as media, journalism, government, civil service, teaching, finance and the charity sector. The course helps you to develop many transferable skills which are highly valued by employers.
Course content and structure
Year 12: Government and Politics of the UK. In this unit, students explore how government and politics works in the UK. This includes the institutions of government such as the constitution, parliament, the executive and cabinet, the prime minister, devolution and the judiciary. It also involves considering other influences on politics in the UK such as elections, the media, pressure groups and political parties. Students will consider contemporary case studies.
Year 12 and 13: Government and Politics of the USA. In this unit, students explore how government and politics work in the USA. They explore the institutions of government, as well as other influences on politics in America. Students also compare and contrast government and politics in the UK and USA.
Year 13: Political Ideas. Students study a range of ideologies and ideas about how politics should work, considering issues such as the relationship between those in power and citizens, the economy and rights. Students will study socialism, liberalism, conservatism and feminism.
Entry requirements
5 GCSE grades at grades 9-5, including a 5 in English or a subject such as History, Geography, Sociology or RE.
Assessment
Students sit three exams at the end of Year 13:
Paper 1 – Government and Politics of the UK
Paper 2 – Government and Politics of the USA
Paper 3 – Political Ideas
