The pursuit of understanding power, people and ideas. Politics affects every aspect of our lives and is constantly changing and evolving. Studying Politics at A Level gives you the opportunity to develop knowledge and understanding of the role Politics plays in relation to current local, national, and global issues, as well as studying key thinkers and political ideas such as conservatism, socialism, liberalism, and feminism, with a view to helping you shape your own views but also understand and respect other people's.
A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 and above, including Maths, with at least two at grade 6, including English. Another essay-based subject will also be considered.
Our students move on to a wide range of careers, whether it be linked to Politics or not. The subject is primed for key civil service jobs, or working with political organisations on a local, national or global level, or in international relations.
A recent Cadbury Government and Politics student is now working for our local MP!
In Politics we use a mix of traditional and more interactive teaching methods, such as class discussions, debates, presentations, independent research and investigations, use of media, group work and trips. We have a joint trip with History students to the Houses of Parliament in London each year. We give students the opportunity to attend external lectures, which will enrich your learning, and to attend University Open Days with the Department, as well as hearing from guest speakers in College.
Component 1 - UK Politics & Core Ideologies:
First Year = UK Politics - Democracy and Participation, Elections, Political Parties, Pressure Groups, Protests and the Media.
Second Year = Core Ideologies: Socialism, Liberalism and Conservatism - Key Ideas and Beliefs, History, Case Studies and how they apply to society today
Component 2 - UK Government & Non-Core Ideology:
First Year = UK Government - The UK Constitution, Devolution, Parliament, Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Judiciary, and The European Union.
Second Year = Feminism - Key ideas and beliefs, History, Case Studies and how they apply to society today.
Component 3 - The USA (All Second Year):
The US Constitution, Congress, The Presidency & Presidential Power, Elections, Party Politics, the Supreme Court and Civil Rights
Assessment
Assessed through examination at the end of Year 2.
Examination 100%
There are three exams:
Component 1: Source and essay questions
Component 2: Source and essay questions
Component 3: Short and long essay questions
3 exams at the end of the upper sixth year.
Students will be entered into the AS exams at the end of first year, where the structure slightly differs.
Exam Board
Edexcel
