Why study Government and Politics?

Through studying Government and Politics, you will learn about the way in which power is exercised in Britain, Europe and across the wider world, including the United States of America. You will gain an understanding of our political system and it will help you become a well-informed citizen, and you will able to comment and contribute to the wider political debate.

What will I learn?

Year 12, Theme 1:

• UK Government – The nature and sources of the British Constitution; The Structure and Role of Parliament; The Prime Minister and the Cabinet; The Judiciary.

Year 12, Theme 2:

• The Politics of the UK – Democracy and Participation; Elections and Referendums; Political Parties; Pressure Groups. The European Union.

Year 13, Theme 3:

• Government and Politics of the USA – The Constitutional Framework of the US Government; Congress; the Presidency; the Judiciary; the Electoral System; Political Parties; Pressure Groups’ Civil Rights.
• Comparative Politics – A Comparison of the Political Systems of the UK and USA.

Year 13, Theme 4:

• Political Ideologies – Liberalism; Conservatism; Socialism.

How will I be assessed?

Year 13: Three two-hour papers.

What other subjects go with Government and Politics?

Pupils often combine Government and Politics with History and/or Philosophy and Theology.

Where could it lead me?

Politics will give you important transferable skills which will be useful for careers in the law, politics, the civil service and public affairs.