Government and Politics

Course summary

This subject explores the mechanisms of politics and government in the UK and the USA. Politics offers the theoretical framework behind the actions of government and promotes a deeper appreciation about what we read and watch in the media. It examines the political systems in both the UK and USA. The key political thinkers that helped shape these political systems and the way the public engage with and participate in political action. Politics explores the structure of key institutions such as legislative bodies, executives and judiciary and the power balance and relationships between them. It explores key debates around the democracies in the UK and USA and analyses the extent current systems uphold key western values. Previously, students have had the opportunity to visit London and the Houses of Parliament, touring the history of the building and each chamber. Politics has close ties with the law A Level, which gives an opportunity for a residential trip to London to tour several political and legislative sites and explore the city. In addition, students have been involved with Bridgwater Town Council Youth Forum to represent the college and give ideas and opinions on town development.