ABOUT THIS COURSE
This course is ideal for learners who are interested in current affairs, the democratic political systems of the UK & the USA and how each democratic political system makes decisions, policies & laws. As part of this course the student will discuss a wide range of political issues that affect the UK & the USA. The course requires in-depth study in Year 1 of the workings of the British democratic political system, study of 4 ideologies (liberalism, conservatism, socialism & nationalism) & an in-depth study of the workings of the democratic political system in the USA in Year 2 along with comparative analysis of both U.S. & U.K. democratic political institutions. You could complement your studies with our extended opportunities programme, including work experience or our Debating society. As part of our Virtual Work Experience Hub that started September 2020, we have had a range of exciting guest speakers including a visit from the Director of the Northern Powerhouse, Henri Murrison, a live google meet with Professor Lichtman from the American University in Washington DC who explained his book on the '13 keys to the White House' and visits from Holly Mumby-Croft; our local MP & Nic Dakin, the Labour candidate for the 2024 General election.
COURSE AREA LEAD
Ivan Tomb
WHO IS THIS AIMED AT?
This course is aimed at students who:
Have an interest in the government, politics and current affairs
Have an interest in using up to date information from news sources
Would like to learn a new subject
Would like to study Politics at university or further themselves in this field in employment
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?
UK Politics: Democracy and participation, political parties, electoral systems, voting behaviour and the media will all be explored alongside core political ideas (liberalism, conservatism & socialism).
UK Government: The constitution, parliament, Prime Minister and relationships between the 3 branches of the UK constitution will be studied in this unit alongside the non-core ideology, nationalism.
Comparative Politics, USA: The US Constitution and federalism, US congress, US presidency, US supreme court and civil rights, democracy and participation & comparative theories.
WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP?
Analysis
Evaluation
Communication
Exam technique
Technical Language
Self Confidence
Practice
Time Management
Creativity and Problem Solving
Oracy
Focus
Responsibility
Attitude
PROGRESSION ROUTES
Politics
Politician
Political Science
International Relations
American Studies
Economics
Law