A Level Politics

Please apply via PS16. Any applications received by 31/1/25 are guaranteed an interview in February - April 2025, as long as minimum entry requirements are met. Offers are made after interview.

UK Politics and core political ideas (year 12)

• Democracy and participation • Political parties • Electoral systems • Voting behaviour and the media • Core ideas: Liberalism, Conservatism and Socialism

UK Government (year 12)

• The constitution • Parliament • The Prime Minister and executive • Relationships between the branches • Non-core idea: Feminism

Comparative politics: Global Politics (year 13)

• The state and globalisation • Global governance: political and economic • Global governance: human rights and environmental • Power and developments • Regionalism and the European Union • Comparative theories (realism and liberalism)

Within Politics there are many opportunities for activities such as group work, research tasks, group teaching and discussion. There is a focus on written answers throughout the course and an understanding of current political events is essential.

• Paper 1: UK Politics and core ideas: one 2 hour exam paper with a choice of questions from the topics studied. Worth 33.3% of the qualification.

• Paper 2: UK Government and non-core ideas: one 2 hour exam paper with a choice of questions from the topics studied. Worth 33.3% of the qualification.

• Paper 3: Comparative politics: one 2 hour exam paper with a range of both choice based questions from the topics studied and a source based question. Worth 33.3% of the qualification.

GCSE Grade 5 in English Language or English Literature or History

An A Level in Politics can open doors to a wide range of paths. It develops critical thinking, research, and communication skills, useful for careers in government, law, journalism, public policy, international relations, and campaigning. It also provides a strong foundation for university courses in politics, history, law, sociology, and international studies. Beyond academia, it equips students to engage with current affairs, understand global issues, and take on roles in advocacy, civil service, or media, making it valuable for any career requiring analytical thinking and informed decision-making.