The most important reason is because you are interested and you think that you will enjoy it- you will not have studied it before so it is a good opportunity to experience a new subject. It is well respected as an A level subject and lots of students combine it with History, Law, Geography, RS, Languages, English- it works well with most subjects. It teaches you skills which will help you in lots of different ways- it helps you to be more aware of how the British system of government works, to be politically aware and it encourages you to debate in a structured way.
We recognise that this is a new area of study for the vast majority of students so we do not assume prior knowledge. A minimum of a grade 6 GCSE in a Humanities subject.
In year 12 the course will focus on Government and Politics in the UK. Areas of study include democracy, participation, Parliament, the Prime Minister and Cabinet, elections and referendums, pressure groups and the constitution. There will also be an introduction to political theory including liberalism, conservatism and socialism
The year will begin with a conclusion to the study of political theory including a study of feminism and we will embark on a study related to American politics. The same themes will be considered in relation to America as in year 12 for the UK eg. Congress, the President, the constitution. There will be comparison between the 2 systems of government and their workings.
If you choose to study politics to degree level you will find out about the theories and practices of power and governance, form local to international level. There are many politics and politics related course to follow at university, eg PPE.
Oxford and LSE (part of the Russell group) will usually make offers which involve at least 1 A* and 2 A grades