Government and Politics
A Level Government and Politics provides a deep and analytical exploration of political structures, ideas, and processes, both domestically and internationally. The course is highly academic and focuses on developing critical skills such as analytical skills, evaluation skills, source analysis, debating and communication and understanding current affairs.
Entry Requirements
Grade 4 at GCSE English Literature or Language is required.
What will I Study?
The programme is split into three main components:
1. UK Politics and Core Political Ideas:
This component provides a foundational understanding of how the UK is governed and the core ideas that shape political discourse.
2. UK Government and Non-Core Political Ideas:
This part focuses on the institutions and constitutional framework of the UK, along with an additional ideology.
3. Comparative Politics (e.g., USA or Global Politics):
The final component moves beyond the UK to compare political systems or explore international relations.
Which exam board is used and how will I be assessed?
Exam board AQA.
Three 2 hour written exams at the end of the course.
Where could this subject take me?
Government & Politics A Level is highly respected and pairs well with subjects like Law, History, Economics, Sociology, Psychology and Philosophy.
Political & Government Roles:
Civil Service
Local Government Officer
Political Researcher
Policy Adviser
Parliamentary Assistant
Communication & Media Careers:
Journalist / Political Correspondent
Press Officer or Communications officer
Public Relations / Media Consultant
International and Non-Governmental Work:
Diplomatic Service (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office)
International NGOs (Amnesty, Oxfam, etc.)
Charity and Advocacy Work
International Development or Aid Coordination
Law, Business & Other Options:
Law
Management Consultancy or Public Sector Consulting
Human Resources / Corporate Social Responsibility
Education
How can I get ahead in this subject
Build on your background knowledge:
UK Politics:
Follow BBC News, The Guardian, The Times, or Sky News.
Watch BBC Question Time, Politics Live, or Andrew Marr interviews.
Learn who the main political parties and leaders are, and what they stand for.
US/Global Politics:
Follow Politico, The New York Times, Reuters, or The Economist.
Watch CNN, PBS NewsHour, or DW News for international perspectives.
Learn Key Concepts & Ideologies:
You’ll need to understand ideas like: Conservatism, Liberalism, Socialism and Capitalism.
Related Courses
Discover complementary subjects that enhance your learning, broaden your skills, and open up exciting future study and career opportunities.
Sport
BTEC
The BTEC National Extended Certificate course in Sport builds upon the ideas that have been learnt and understood at GCSE PE or L2 BTEC Sport. The aim of the course is to generate an interest and
English Language
A Level
English Language at A-Level is a rich and rewarding subject that explores how language shapes who we are, how we think, and how we interact with the world around us. Students will investigate how
Business
A Level
The Edexcel A Level Business curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the key concepts, theories, and practices in the field of business. This two-year course
Biology
A Level
A Level Biology will give students an exciting insight into the contemporary world of biology. This course covers the key concepts of biology and the development of practical skills are integrated
Health & Social Care
BTEC
This qualification is part of the suite of Health and Social Care qualifications offered by Pearson. The course aims to give students wanting to enter into the sector the basis for degree level
English Literature
A Level
Our students will move from initial readings to more in-depth consideration of some engaging and thought provoking texts across the two year programme of study. The texts have been chosen for maximum
Maths
A Level
The A Level course builds upon the ideas that have been learnt and understood at GCSE as well as advancing into the modelling applications of mathematics. A Level Maths aims to develop analytic
Fine Art
A Level
During the A Level course students will build upon their knowledge, skills and techniques learnt during their GCSE Art course. Students will be encouraged to explore a range of different materials,
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Completing an EPQ is an opportunity for students to explore interests, skills and subjects outside and beyond A-level courses to give students the competitive edge in applications and interviews for
History
A Level
The A Level course in History aims to expand on the knowledge and skills you have developed up to Key Stage 4. During the course you will study a range of different themes and countries, over various
Music Performance
BTEC
This course is perfect for students who enjoy playing music! It is an extremely practical course where you will be expected to be confident performing in-front of and working along side other