Politics

We don’t always like politicians and the actions of governments, but politics touches every aspect of our lives. Whether a government's policies make you feel angry or reassured, it’s worth having knowledge of how the whole process of an elected government works and an understanding of the theories that inform the processes and institutions that govern us. A Level Politics helps develop critical thinking and enhances your ability to interpret, evaluate and comment on the nature of politics.

Course highlights:

In the first year of Politics, you will study three main themes. The first theme is UK Politics which covers issues such as how voting behaviour is changing in elections and what the purpose of political parties are in the UK. The second theme of study is UK Government. This covers issues such as what parliament’s role is in the UK political system and whether we have an increasingly presidential style of government. The third theme is Political Ideas where we study Socialism, Liberalism, Conservatism and an optional ideology such as Feminism or Nationalism. In this topic, you will study the ideas that inform political parties and institutions with a particular focus on the key thinkers.

The second year focuses on one main topic – Global Politics. This exciting and relevant subject will place British politics in a global context and enable you to better understand political institutions in a globalised world and the implications of recent issues such as Brexit. You will develop your understanding of existing world powers like the USA and emerging world powers, such as China, and their role in shaping global politics.

If you want to learn about people power, how government works and how ideas inform actions then this A Level is for you.