Politics

Course summary

The study of Politics will change your understanding of the UK forever. You will not only learn about the fantastic benefits of the UK democracy – but also become aware of the deep flaws that penetrate into the heart of government. You will keep up to date with the news and find out about policy issues that affect everyday life. There is no prior requirement for study of Politics at GCSE. First year students develop a knowledge and understanding of the British political system. Part 1: UK Politics: This includes in-depth studies of referendums; MPs and their parties; competing ideologies in the UK and their histories; how we elect our governments and what the alternates should be; pressure groups and whether our democratic system is being undermined by big business, voting behaviours and the media. Part 2: UK Government: This includes learning about the inner workings of parliament; the history of the UK constitution and the problem with us not actually having a written one; the role of the Prime Minister and their cabinet. In the second year, you will study US Comparative Politics. This includes looking at the nature of US democracy - and the debates surrounding it - comparing and contrasting politics and institutions in the US with those in the UK.