Politics
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Course Overview
Qualification: A Level Courses
- Politics is at the heart of everything we do. It is inspiring, exciting and relevant. It is never dull or predictable.
- You will learn to identify political arguments, weigh evidence against opinion and come to understand how your life is affected by political activity and appreciate why politics matters.
- You will explore topics such as why people vote for particular parties – is it the media, their class or the appeal of leaders? Turnout in General Elections in recent years has been in decline but was very high in the Scottish Referendum – what does that tell us about participation in politics?
- The course could hardly be more relevant as you find out what the political parties stand for and their role in the political system and, as more citizens take to the streets, you will consider whether protest is effective and how pressure groups can influence policy.
- You will also examine the ‘nuts and bolts’ of our political system; the power of the Prime Minister, the role of Parliament and the relationships between Politicians and Judges.
- You will also explore the ideological traditions in British Politics.
- In the second year, you will study the Politics of the United States and use this to complete a comparative study with the UK.
- You will share a classroom with learners from a wide diversity of backgrounds and political views and you will be encouraged to explore different perspectives, challenge your assumptions and formulate your own opinions.
- Politics groups quickly develop a community, being keen to share their understanding and debate ideas together beyond the classroom.
- You do not have to know much (or anything) about politics already but you should be curious and interested in discovering why, how and where decisions are made.
- You will have the opportunity for independent study utilising traditional and new media, the press, journals, television, radio and podcasts. Success requires learners to take an interest in current affairs and to read and listen widely.
- Trips are usually organised to Parliament, which can significantly boost students’ understanding.
- There may be the opportunity to attend masterclasses and university taster events at local Russell Group universities.
- The subject area utilises a variety of teaching methods. These include lectures, discussions, group work, student presentations, video material, study packs, IT-based activities, trips and visits and guest speakers.
Solihull Sixth Form College is a popular choice for A level Politics for young people in Solihull and Birmingham.
This information is correct for entry in September 2025.
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