Politics
A level Politics builds knowledge, debate skills, and real-world insight through trips and engaging discussion.
Curriculum Intent
Studying politics enables students to engage in politics in an informed and considered way. Students will develop a knowledge of the workings of the UK and global political systems. In addition to this, students develop a foundation of knowledge and understanding of the political ideas that underpin political debate and activity. We place a heavy emphasis on debate and engaging with the questions and dilemmas that face our community and wider society. Students develop critical analysis and strong communication skills. We follow the Edexcel A level politics course.
Outside of the classroom, students will visit the Palace of Westminster amidst other enrichment opportunities.
Key Stage 3
Key Stage 4
Key Stage 5
Students can study A Level Politics in our sixth form.
Year 12 is the UK focused part of the A level course. Students will study Paper 1: UK Politics, which explores democracy, electoral systems, political parties and voting behaviour, and Paper 2: UK Government, which explores the executive, legislature and judiciary along with the composition of the UK constitution. In addition to this, the political ideas section of the course is split across papers 1 and 2.
In year 13, students study Paper 3: Global Politics. This paper covers the ways in which human rights, the global economy, environmental protection and war and conflict are governed at an international level. In addition to this, students will consider contrasting attitudes to global political issues, liberalism and realism in particular, and will explore global political issues.
A strong awareness of current affairs is vital to success in A level politics and students are encouraged to consume news and current affairs regularly and from a range of sources.
