Politics

This course introduces students to the vast, complicated and often frustrating world of politics. Politics A-Level offers students the opportunity to contribute to the wider political discussion in an informed and constructive manner. It gives them a head start when they will shortly be expected to offer their opinions, and their votes, on the future of the country. Students will also benefit from honing their argumentative skills, both on paper and in face-to-face debates, which will serve them well in whatever career they go on to pursue. 

The main focus of the course is on political institutions and ideas. This centres on the UK, with the workings of power and democracy analysed in practice. Core ideas of conservatism, liberalism and socialism will studied, as well as another field of thought, such as nationalism, feminism or anarchism. Students also zoom out to how politics works globally, with institutions such as the UN, EU and African Union the subjects of evaluation. There are also broader debates on global challenges, such as the establishment of international human rights.

The crucial requirement for this course is the willingness and ability to engage in contemporary political debate. Students must therefore dedicate time outside of prescribed homework to furthering their curiosity in politics – reading newspapers, watching political debates and listening to political podcasts. Additionally, as an essay subject, students will need to convert their ideas to clear, coherent arguments on paper. Therefore, it is recommended that students have achieved grade 7 at English GCSE and they preferably have taken History at GCSE. After school, a Politics A-Level opens up the possibility of undertaking popular subjects at university such as International Relations, Philosophy, Politics, Law & Journalism. Likewise, it can lead to future careers in the Civil Service, International Institutions & Law, although it is certainly not limited to these careers.