Politics
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Blocks
1
Level
A-Level
Course Length
2 Years
Timetable
Full Time
Reasons to study Politics
Politics has never been more relevant.
You will develop skills valued by universities and employers including source analysis, evaluation and the ability to construct academic arguments.
Politics complements a wide variety of other subjects such as History, Law and English.
What you will study
Year 1 (AS) – referendums, political parties and pressure groups. The Prime Minister’s role and the relationship between different branches of government. 20 ‘key thinkers’ linked to political ideologies such as socialism, liberalism, conservatism and feminism.
Year 2 (A-Level) – US politics examining a variety of topics including the constitution, role of the Supreme Court and presidential powers.
Entry Criteria
a real passion and enthusiasm for the news and current affairs
an ability to consider different viewpoints
good analysis and extended writing skills
How you will be assessed
Year 1 (AS) – two exams.
Year 2 (A-Level) – three two-hour exams.
Exams are a series of essay-based questions.
Priestley extra
Visit Parliament, take part in Question Time with local politicians, work with pressure groups and other guest speakers. Overseas study visits to Washington D.C. and New York, as well as European venues.
Reading List
Keep up to date with politics via news websites and papers as well as @priestleypolitics on Twitter
Other recommended reading:
Yvette Cooper, She Speaks
AC Grayling, The Good State
David Cameron, For the Record
Andrew Gimson, Gimson’s Prime Ministers
David Runciman, How Democracy Ends
Apply Now
Progression
Politics is a highly respected A-Level that allows access to a wide range of degree courses at university. Past Priestley students have gone on to study History, Law, Philosophy, PPE, and other subjects at Russell Group universities. Politics students are employed in diverse fields from journalism, local government, teaching, the civil service, intelligence services, management and administration, market research, and public relations.
How to Apply
Apply for your place early to avoid disappointment!