Politics is the study of political institutions, processes and the issues which affect citizens’ lives. In the second year students study political ideologies and engage with the philosophical arguments that underpin contemporary society. Students will gain an understanding of how laws are made and the relationship between the state and the individual. It is a live subject; ever evolving, students will be expected to follow current affairs and take a genuine interest in the world they live.

AQA Exam Board. The course is entirely exam based. There are 3 exams, each weighted equally which last 2 hours each.

Please refer to our Sixth Form prospectus for entry requirements.

Paper 1 examines British Politics and Government in which the Constitution, electoral systems, voting behaviour, Parliament and the Judiciary are all taught. Paper 2 examines the US Political system where Congress, the President, the Supreme Court and Elections are covered with a strong focus on how it compares to its UK counterpart. Paper 3 provides a foundation for the theory of Political Thought through the study of Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism and Anarchism.

The department run trips to the University of Sheffield for the Model UN, University of York, Westminster and London conferences. We also invite distinguished guest speakers to talk to the students, including serving MPs, The Professor Lord Hennessy, and lecturers from the University of Manchester.

Politics is a traditional and highly regarded A level, favoured by Russell Group universities. It is an excellent course to study if you are considering a career in; law, business, the civil service, teaching, journalism. Students will have to employ a range of transferable skills valued by Higher Education institutions and employers.