Welcome to Government & Politics

If you are interested in current affairs and understanding more about the world around you, then Government & Politics is for you. We study both British and American politics in lessons, which afford plenty of opportunities for lively discussion and debates.

As there is no opportunity to study this subject before Key Stage 5, we do not require any subject experience. That being said, however, we do expect you to have an active interest in the subject, which should be enhanced by reading newspapers and watching the news.

Outside of the classroom, there are many opportunities for students to experience the socio-political climate. We visit the houses of Parliament in London, have trips to universities to attend talks and conferences, and invite political speakers into school.

Assessment

The Government & Politics course is comprised of three written examinations.

• Paper 1: UK Politics, Including Political Participation & Core Political Ideas
  This is a written exam, lasting for 2 hours. This exam is worth 33.3% of the course certification.
• Paper 2: UK Government & Political Ideas
  This is a written exam, lasting for 2 hours. This exam is worth 33.3% of the course certification.
• Paper 3: Comparative Politics on the US Political System & Ideas
  This is a written exam, lasting for 2 hours. This exam is worth 33.3% of the course certification.

Career & Progression Opportunities

A-level Government & Politics is a good choice for students considering a career in professions related to economics, history, sociology or English. Many students who study the Government & Politics A-level go on to study it at university. From there, you might become a researcher, join local or central government, or even start on the path to become a future Prime Minister! There are other options too, however. If you fancy a career in journalism, or the media, this course is incredibly useful. You could also go on to become a teacher, or work in the legal profession.

Entry Requirements

If you’d like to study Government & Politics, then you’ll need at least a Grade 5 in English, plus 4 other GCSE qualifications at a Grade 5 or above.

If you’d like to, you can download this information as a PDF file. Download the Government & Politics course information sheet (opens in a new tab) →