SUBJECT SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Grade 6 in a GCSE Humanities subject and in GCSE English. If students have not studied a GCSE Humanities subject, they will be subject to a trial period followed by a review by half term.

WHAT DOES THE COURSE INVOLVE?

A Level Politics is divided into three units:

• Unit 1: UK Politics.This unit introduces you to the key channels of communication between the UK Government and its people. It encourages you to evaluate the adequacy of existing arrangements for ensuring representative democracy and participation, as well as introducing you to the core theoretical perspectives behind Political Philosophy; Conservatism, Liberalism and Socialism.
• Unit 2: UK GovernmentThis unit introduces you to the major governmental processes within the UK. It encourages you to develop a critical understanding of the role and effectiveness of key institutions, and of the relationship amongst them in the context of multi-level governance. The unit also extends your study of Political Philosophy, by offering a choice between a close study of Anarchism, Ecologism, Feminism, Multiculturalism or Nationalism.
• Unit 3: Comparative Politics: USA. You will study representative processes in the USA and the workings of the US government. Key areas of analysis include the US Constitution, US Congress, Presidency and the Supreme Court, as well as civil rights, elections, political parties and pressure groups.

WHAT ARE THE TEACHING AND LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES?

You will participate in presentations, group work, debate and discussions. The teaching style will reflect the seminar style teaching at university and will encourage an independent, mature approach to learning, with ample opportunity for personal research around the topics studied. An interest in politics and a willingness to read around the subject, including news media, is vital for successful completion of the course.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

WHY IS THIS QUALIFICATION USEFUL?

Politics is a well-respected A Level which will help to gain access to a variety of degree courses, including Politics, Law, Journalism, History and PPE. The skills gained through studying Government and Politics, including debate, discussion and extended writing are highly valued by employers, and often lead to careers in finance, education, politics, civil society and international relations.