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Politics

What do we cover in this subject?

A Level Politics at Hutton focuses on three main areas that you’ll explore in detail:

  • Unit 1: How politics and government work in the UK

  • Unit 2: How politics and government work in the USA, plus comparisons between the two

  • Unit 3: Key political ideas like liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and nationalism

You'll look at important topics such as democracy, how people vote, what political parties stand for, pressure groups, civil rights, and how the UK and US governments are structured. You’ll learn how political systems and ideas affect everyday life—and how they're constantly changing.

Throughout the course, you’ll keep up with news and current events from both the UK and the USA, helping you understand how decisions are made and how leaders are chosen. You’ll also build key skills like research, writing, debating, and public speaking, which are useful in loads of other subjects and careers.

 

How is the subject taught?

Politics is taught by 2 experienced teacher who uses real-world news stories and current affairs to bring the subject to life. You’ll have 9 lessons every two weeks, and you’ll get regular practice writing exam-style answers and essays.

There’s no coursework. Instead, you’ll sit three 2 hour exams at the end of the course. The exams include a mix of short explanation questions and longer essays. You’ll also have regular assessments in class to help track your progress and make sure you're ready for the final exams.

 

What are the enrichment opportunities in this subject?

A Level Politics includes some exciting enrichment opportunities. There’s a trip to London where you’ll visit the Houses of Parliament, the UK Supreme Court, and Whitehall. You’ll also have the chance to join Hutton’s Debating Society, where you can discuss and debate big political issues.

We also welcome guest speakers like local MPs, councillors, civil servants, and political advisers who can share what it’s really like to work in politics.

 

Where does this subject lead to after Sixth Form?

Politics is a great subject if you’re thinking about studying politics, sociology, ethics, journalism, history, management, or advertising at university. Employers also really value the skills you gain, so it’s useful for careers in government, law, international organisations, media, business, and the civil service.

Some of our past students have gone on to study at top universities like Oxford and Cambridge, work for political parties, join the civil service, or take on management roles in major companies.