Course Overview
Please note: you will make your selection of three A Levels once you have progressed into the application process.
Studying Politics allows you to explore the structures of power and decision-making that shape the UK and the wider world. Through the Global Politics route, you will examine key issues in international relations, global governance, and political theory, as well as UK politics and government.
This subject enables you to develop critical awareness of contemporary political events and equips you with the skills to understand, evaluate and debate complex global issues. You will explore how power operates at different levels—from local to global—and the key institutions and ideologies that influence political behaviour and decision-making.
Our Politics students benefit from visits to Parliament. You will also have opportunities to participate in enrichment activities, such as political simulations, student debates, and guest lectures from political figures and academics.
Topics may include:
- UK politics and core political ideas
- UK Government and non-core ideology
- Global politics.
Assessment Methods
You will be assessed through three written examinations at the end of your second year, covering UK politics and core political ideas, UK government and non-core political ideologies, and global politics.
There is no coursework or controlled assessment. Each exam includes a mixture of short-answer, source-based and extended essay questions.
Progression Options
A Level Politics is highly regarded by universities and complements a wide range of undergraduate courses such as politics, international relations, law, economics, history and sociology.
Many of our students go on to study Politics and related subjects at top institutions including Oxbridge and Russell Group universities. Students have gone on to successful careers in law, international diplomacy, the civil service, journalism, political consultancy and global NGOs.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
