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Course Overview

A-Level Politics is a dynamic and thought-provoking subject that explores how the world around you is shaped by political decisions, institutions, and ideologies. If you’re curious about current affairs, enjoy debating big issues, or want to understand how real political power works — this is the subject for you! Over the 2-year course you will develop skills that prepare you for university, apprenticeships, and employment.

 

These skills focus on analysis & critical thinking, communication & debate, and evaluation, and are suited to a wide range of careers but fit especially well with futures in Law, Politics, Journalism, Civil Service, Marketing and Local Government to name a few. Politics at Sixth Form College is taught by driven, dedicated and enthusiastic experts who strive to bring the world of politics to life in the classroom. From your first lesson to your last, none will ever be the same! No prior knowledge is needed, just bring curiosity and a strong work ethic.

ASSESSMENT

  • Exams: 100%
  • Awarding Body: Edexcel

Course Topics

  • UK Politics and Government: This has a focus on how elections work, what rights we have, which parties have a chance of winning, why people vote the way they do, and the impact of social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram on voters. It also covers the prime minister and how much power they actually have, the UK Constitution and how laws are passed as well as the Supreme Court and the rulings that protect or strip away our rights. 
  • Ideologies: This component looks at the principles that underpin political parties. Ever wondered what socialism is and how it’s different to communism? What liberals stand for and how they are different to conservatives? How about feminism and the difference between sex and gender? This part of the course takes a critical look at the ideas shaping the world around you.  
  • US Politics: In our final component we look at the US system and how it compares to the UK. You will study the US Constitution and analyse its struggle to keep up with the current needs of the country. You’ll look at Congress and how it represents the people, the US president and their ability to seemingly act without limits. The impact of the civil rights movement and how important the Supreme Court is, before comparing the systems in the US and the UK and evaluating their effectiveness. 

BEGIN – IS THIS COURSE RIGHT FOR ME?

If you’re curious about the world around you, enjoy following current affairs, and want to understand how events shape our lives, A-Level Politics could be the right course. You’ll need to be able to bring real-world examples into your essays, stay organised, and work hard. Confidently sharing ideas, debating, and articulating arguments with your peers will help you thrive and reach higher grade levels. 

BELONG – WHY STUDY THIS WITH US?

Politics has never been more relevant, and our lessons bring current events to life. You’ll explore debates, case studies, and social media discussions, and critically evaluate your own arguments and those of others. No two lessons are ever the same, and students are encouraged to share opinions and experiences to deepen understanding. 

You’ll also benefit from an incredible programme of enrichment opportunities. Past students have met MPs including Sir Keir Starmer, David Williams, Jo Gideon, and Ed Miliband, as well as political scientists like John Curtis. Trips have included the Houses of Parliament, Washington DC, the Imperial War Museum, and talks at Russell Group universities. 

We also focus on preparing you for the future: from UCAS and careers guidance to Aspire+ sessions, you’ll receive tailored support to plan your next steps — whether that’s university, apprenticeships, or employment. 

BEYOND – WHERE CAN THIS COURSE TAKE ME?

Politics opens doors to a wide range of academic and career pathways. Many students go on to study Politics, Law, Philosophy & Economics, International Relations, Journalism, Finance, or Media at university. Others pursue apprenticeships in law, finance, or accounting, while some move directly into professional roles where analytical and communication skills are highly valued. 

Our students have successfully progressed to Oxford, Cambridge, and other Russell Group universities, with support from our high achievers’ programme and expert staff. Beyond academics, the skills you develop in politics — critical thinking, debating, research, and communication — are transferable and will serve you in almost any career. Politics isn’t just about studying government — it’s about equipping yourself for a lifetime of opportunities. 

If you are unsure what course you think you should choose or what career you would like to aspire towards then contact Admissions:

01782 854221
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