Government & Politics

A Level Government and Politics is one of the most interesting and engaging qualifications you can choose. Covering news and current affairs from the UK and US, it helps you understand how both countries are run.

You will explore key issues and have an opportunity to debate some of the most relevant topics facing the world. Government and Politics helps to develop research, written communication and debating skills.

The Government and Politics course is split into three areas of study over two years:

• UK Government and Politics: You will study and discuss key debates surrounding; Brexit, The powers of the Prime Minister and whether Britain is truly democratic? 

You will learn about how citizens participate in the UK political system, why people vote the way they do and the role of political parties and pressure groups.

• US Government and Politics: You will study big issues about the power of the President, why is it so easy to have guns in the USA, and why is race such a big issue in America?

You will learn about how the American system of government operates with a focus on the constitutional powers of the President, Congress and the Supreme Court. You will also have an opportunity to compare and contrast UK and US politics.

• Political Ideas: You will examine some of the great ideas that have shaped our world including; Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism and Feminism. 

You will learn about how these wider theories have influenced how the UK and US have been governed.

You will be assessed through 3 exams, each worth a third of your grade.

This qualification is a great combination with A Level History and is ideal if you’re considering studying politics, sociology, ethics, advertising or journalism at university.

It is highly regarded by employers in industries including politics, international organisations, the media, government and the civil service.