Government and Politics

Course summary

A Level pathways are designed to prepare you for higher education and beyond, be it a degree, research or a wide range of careers. In year one you will study the AS specification and take exams in May/June. If successful, you will progress to year two and complete the full A Level. A Level Government and Politics enables you to develop critical thinking skills and enhances your ability to interpret, evaluate and comment on the nature of politics. Through assignments, seminars, discussions and presentations, you will have the opportunity to develop skills required by universities and employers. In year one you will study government and politics in the UK. There will be one, 3-hour exam at the end of the first year: • The nature and sources of the British Constitution • The structure and role of Parliament • The Prime Minister and Cabinet • Democracy and participation • Elections and referendums • Political parties • Pressure groups • The European Union In year two as well as the content from year one, you will also study: • The Government and politics of the USA • Comparative politics • Political ideas As part of your study programme you are required to complete a minimum of 20 hours work experience in both year one and year two. This will help develop the personal qualities and skills required by universities and employers.