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Politics

Curriculum Intent

The Politics curriculum provides students with not only a highly regarded A Level but also the knowledge to be able to be responsible citizens, fully engaged with the democratic process.  It is an exceptionally relevant and vibrant subject.

The curriculum ensures that students understand both the political and governmental sides of Politics, so that they appreciate how citizens get involved in the political process and also how the less visible aspects of government function.  The department strives to help students develop into balanced and critical thinkers, considering and being respectful of all perspectives while using evidence and reasoning to come to their own judgements. 

We aim to encourage lifelong interest and participation in politics by helping students develop habits of further reading and engagement with the latest political developments.  We find that our students take pride in their political education and their ability to converse and debate knowledgeably about the issues of the day.

Key Stage 5

The A Level Politics specification is designed to encourage students to develop their critical thinking skills and enhance their ability to interpret, evaluate and comment on the nature of politics. Students acquire expert knowledge of the structures of authority and power within the political systems of the United Kingdom and the USA, as well as the key ideologies underpinning politics across the world. Politics also helps students to develop their essay writing and debating skills which are transferable to other subjects. 

The A Level comprises of three papers of equal weight:

  • Government and Politics of the UK
  • Government and Politics of the USA and comparative politics
  • Political Ideas (Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism and Nationalism)

Where can Politics take me?

A high proportion of students who have taken the A Level in Politics enjoy it so much that they go on to study Politics at university.

However, Politics A Level also lends itself to a range of other degrees and careers and is highly regarded by all subjects at university. From here you might become a researcher, join local or national government, or perhaps follow a career in journalism, for which this course is very useful. Students also go on to become teachers or work in the legal profession. 

The skills gained from Politics A Level of critical thinking and evaluation and the ability to express oneself clearly are of benefit to all future study and careers.


Politics Curriculum & Assessment Overview