CHRISTOPHER WHITEHEAD
LANGUAGE COLLEGE AND SIXTH FORM
WELCOME TO CWLC SIXTH FORM!
ANNA WILSON | SIXTH FORM STUDENT
I chose Politics as I’d never studied it before and the idea of taking on a new subject appealed to me. Having studied History at GCSE, I decided Politics would be a good fit for me as I was interested in not only the modern–day elements of the course but also the more historic elements. I have particularly enjoyed studying US politics as it’s such a baffling and foreign concept to me yet it massively impacts my life. Politics has really improved my essay–writing skills and analysis and evaluation skills which I believe will be incredibly useful for me at university.
WHY CHOOSE A-LEVEL POLITICS?
Politics is about you! You live in a democracy, and, in theory, you have control over the laws of this country. You elect the people who represent you and make the laws. This course looks at people power: how people participate and how they can influence a set of policies; pressure groups and protest movements; plus, the inner workings of our democracy. You will become equipped with knowledge on how elections work, and which electoral system is which. Ever wondered what ‘First past the Post’ truly means?
As this is a truly dynamic course you will understand the political system by studying the changes within the system as they happen. The General Election of 2019, Brexit and the fourth Prime Minister in six years will dominate the political landscape but how will it affect you? Politics is a real-time event, it is constantly changing, and this adds interest and gives a greater sense of importance to the topics studied.
The course covers British Politics and looks at voting behaviour, electoral systems and the key institutions of Westminster politics. We explore devolution and consider how they have changed the power of the people.
- Year 1 ends by looking at the core political ideologies and a study of feminism.
- Year 2 considers American Government and Politics and compares to the UK
WHY STUDY A-LEVEL POLITICS AT CWLC?
In the past, Politics students have visited the Houses of Parliament and conferences featuring leading politicians of the day. Politics students also participate in local politics with visits from local politicians, election hustings and regular ‘impetus’ opportunities. We are really proud of our results with students in 2022 achieving 50% grade A*/A. The course is taught by two experienced member of staff who are politically minded. Ultimately, we recognise that politics affects everything we do, and we thoroughly enjoy teaching it!
WHAT COULD YOU DO NEXT?
The A-Level provides a grounding for a plethora of subjects with International Relations being a popular option. It is particularly useful for those who wish to consider a career in Law, the Civil Service, Local Government and Politics, teaching or Social Services. The skills it provides give weight and support to many a degree or career.