A Level Politics

Applications Open: - 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - 31st March 2026

Entry Requirements: - Our Sixth Form entry requirements are five GCSEs at Grade 4 and above for the 'A' Level Pathway (in addition to some individual subject entry requirements) and 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 and above for the Vocational (BTEC) Pathway. The course information gives specific details of course content and entry requirements. Please also refer to the Sixth Form Prospectus for the specific entry requirements for the chosen subjects.

Students need to select the equivalent of 3 A Levels or more. (Triple BTEC counts as 3, Double BTEC counts as 2). Subjects are grouped into option blocks, please be aware that not all combinations are possible.

In addition to academic requirements stated above a place will be dependent on the receipt of a satisfactory school reference.

How to Apply: - Please apply via Kent Choices if you area a student from another school.

Please visit our website www.stanselmscanterbury.org.uk for more information.

“The course is taught in a relaxed manner with time for discussion and debate. Knowledge gained in the classroom is developed through visits to Parliament, UKC, the devolved assembly in Belfast and the European Parliament”

Among the many benefits of this course, students are encouraged to:

• Develop a critical awareness of the nature of politics and the relationship between political ideas
• Acquire knowledge and understanding of the structures of authority and power within the UK, and how these differ from those of other political systems
• Know and understand the rights and responsibilities of the individual
• Develop an interest in and engagement with contemporary politics

YEAR 1:

UK Politics: Exploring democracy and participation in the UK; the policies and development of the different political parties; the impact of pressure groups in the UK; the use of different electoral systems as well as voting behaviour and the impact of the media.

Ideology: Exploring the roots of the political ideologies of conservativism, socialism and liberalism; the core principles of each and the impact they have had on the UK and the wider world.

YEAR 2:

Comparative Politics: Exploring the US Constitution and federalism; US Congress; US presidency; US Supreme Court and civil rights; democracy and participation. Alongside this, students are expected to draw comparisons with their first year of study.

Activities:

• Opportunities to take part in local debating competitions
• Participation in the Canterbury Youth Parliament
• London Revision Days
• Guest speakers

Where can this course take me?

Students who take Politics find that the course goes well with Business Studies, Sociology and Philosophy. Pupils should consider Politics if they have a desire to work in the fields of law, criminology, media studies, international relations and human rights.