A Level Government and Politics - Invicta Grammar School

Applications Open: 14th November 2025

Applications Close: 13th March 2026

Entry Requirements: - Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English, and the individual subject entry requirements.

How to Apply: Please apply via the Kent Choices website.

How many subjects can you choose: - You MUST choose 3 subjects (these can be mixture of A-level or BTEC's). Please DO NOT choose anymore than 5 subjects.

Please note that if you are intending to study a course at Invicta Grammar School as part of your course choices, you can only study one Invicta course (maximum) alongside two Valley Park courses.

If you wish to make any changes, you can do so via your application page or send us a message.

Your application will be acknowledged and conditional offer letters will be sent out after the closing date.

Politics affects everybody in society. Through studying politics you will learn more about how government operates on a global, European and domestic level. You will learn how institutions like parliament operate, how elections take place and how individual politicians, from local councillors to the Prime Minister arrive at decisions. You will also study how protest groups operate and what different British political parties stand for. At A Level, you will study three units over two years. Unit 1 is a study of British government and politics. The main areas of focus will be political parties, pressure groups, voting behaviour and elections. You will also study the roles of parliament, the cabinet, the Prime Minister, the civil service and the judicial system. The influence of the European Union on British politics will also be investigated. Unit 2 is a study of American government and politics, focusing on areas such as the two main political parties, the election process, the roles of the Congress, President and the Supreme Court. The different powers and responsibilities of the federal and state governments are also considered. You will also be asked to compare the UK and US systems of government. Unit 3 is a study of political ideas and ideologies, looking at the main systems of political thought that have shaped modern politics, from socialism, conservatism and liberalism. There will also be some optional topics on nationalism, feminism and anarchism. Through your studies, you will develop a critical approach to looking at national and global issues. You will improve your written skills, your ability to present information and your capacity to take part in reasoned discussion, debate and dialogue with others. All of these qualities will serve you well in higher education and in the world of work. A degree in politics can lead to a career in journalism, the media, publishing, law, local government, management and politics itself.

Grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language or Grade 6 in GCSE History.

This course can be studied as part of the Valley Park Curriculum offer where students within the Valley Invicta Academy trust may avail of courses on offer in our partner schools across the trust.