close

Menu

Portals

A level Politics

What is the A level about?

Politics is a subject with plotlines that are so preposterous, they would be rejected by Netflix as unbelievable. Brexit, Trump, Covid and four prime ministers in six years. The truth is that it is difficult to know precisely what you will be studying when you embark on a politics course, and that is what makes the subject so appealing.

However there are ways of making sense of the chaos. While the examples change from year to year, the nuts and bolts of politics is remarkably resilient. Year one focuses on the government and politics of the UK, how the system works and why different people argue so much within it. In year two we look at global politics, such as the role of the UN and NATO, especially as many pupils go on to study International Relations at university. 

Therefore, Politics at A level is designed to enable you to understand the broadly unchanging structures that underpin the political systems in Britain and the World and then to investigate the conflict and consensus that builds on top and fluctuates from year to year, month to month, hour to hour.

Modules

The course is split into three components

  • Component 1: UK Politics
  • Component 2: UK Government
  • Component 3: Global Politics

Assessment

Three examinations.

Whom does the subject suit?

If you want to change the world (or want to prevent the world from being changed) but don’t know where to start, this is the subject for you. Politics combines well with History, Geography or Economics as option choices.

What skills should I have?

The course is largely assessed through essays and is a 100% examination based qualification. You need to be able to debate using the written and spoken word; if you have this, even with no other discernible skills, talents or ideas, you too could one day be prime minister.

What might the subject lead to?

Politics related subjects, including International Relations have proved to be popular university destinations for our pupils.

What trips are involved?

We have visited the Houses of Parliament and become invoiced in more local political competitions in West Oxfordshire.

What else should I consider before choosing?

It is important to enter the subject with an open mind. Political polarisation, rather than any extremist ideology, is the greatest threat to functioning democracy in Britain and America. Many people are happy to swallow the set-menu on offer from each party, when in reality what they need is more à la carte. The one guiding mantra to adhere to is the same one that my Politics teacher taught me 20 years ago, that no one party or ideology has a monopoly on political wisdom. Listen to each other and don’t be too proud to change your mind.

What books should I read?

MP and noted parliamentary historian, Chris Bryant, has written an excellent two-volume history of parliament.

Read political magazines, from left-wing to right-wing: The Tribune, The New Statesman, The Economist, The Spectator.

Exam Board

Pearson Edexcel

Entry Criteria

A grade 6 in an essay-based subject, such as History, Geography, Economics, Theology or English Literature is desirable.

Career Pathways

  • Law
  • Politics
  • Journalism