Power. Protest. Elections. Ideas. Who really runs the country?

Politics shapes every aspect of our lives, from the laws we live by and the rights we enjoy to the issues dominating the news and social media. A Level Politics explores who holds power, how decisions are made and whether our political systems are truly democratic.

You will study UK politics and government, key political ideologies including liberalism, conservatism, and socialism, and the political system of the United States. Along the way, you will examine elections, political parties, pressure groups, Parliament, the Prime Minister, the Presidency and some of the most important political debates of our time.

Politics is ideal for students who are curious about the world around them and enjoy debating ideas, analysing evidence and questioning different viewpoints. You will develop valuable skills in research, evaluation, communication and critical thinking that are highly regarded by universities and employers.

Lessons are dynamic and closely linked to current affairs, with real-world events regularly shaping discussion and debate in the classroom.

A level

We follow the Pearson Edexcel A-level Politics specification. This is a two-year linear course, assessed 
through essay-based examinations at the end of the Upper Sixth. There is no coursework.

What Subjects Does Politics Complement?

Politics is one of the most versatile A Levels and works well alongside a wide range of subjects. It naturally complements History, Geography, Philosophy and English, helping students develop strong analytical, evaluative and essay-writing skills.

However, Politics is equally valuable alongside Mathematics, the Sciences, Computer Science, Business, Economics and Psychology. Understanding how governments make decisions, how societies respond to major challenges and how public policy shapes the modern world provides useful context for students interested in economics, technology, medicine, engineering and scientific research.

Whether your interests lie in the Humanities, Social Sciences, Business or STEM, Politics develops critical thinking, evidence-based judgement and communication skills that are transferable across a wide range of university courses and careers.

Future Pathways

Politics provides excellent preparation for a variety of degree courses and careers, including:

• Law
• Politics and International Relations
• Business and Management
• Economics and Finance
• Journalism and Media
• Public Policy and Government
• Marketing and Communications
• Civil Service and Public Administration
• Consulting 
• Museums, Heritage and History
• Teaching and Academia

Politics is not just about politicians. It's about power, and power affects everyone.