A Level Politics

Applications Open - 1st November 2026

Applications Close - 12th February 2027

Entry Requirements - Please refer to the Sixth Form Course Directory via the website www.knoleacademy.org

Option blocks and detailed subject information can be found in our course directory on our website www.knoleacademy.org

How to Apply - Via Kent Choices https://www.kentprospectus.co.uk/login

Level 3 Courses - select a minimum of 3 courses to study

Level 2 Courses - select 1 course only as each course is studied on a full time basis.

A Level Politics offers students the opportunity to develop their knowledge and informed understanding of contemporary political structures and issues in their historical context, both within the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

The course encourages students to develop a critical awareness of the changing nature of politics and the relationships between political ideas, institutions and processes. This will help them understand how influences and interests can impact how government and politics work and understanding of the rights and responsibilities are of individuals and groups. Students will develop skills of critical analysis when it comes to interpretation and evaluation of politics and to form arguments and make judgements as they develop an interest and engage with contemporary politics.

Paper 1: UK Politics and Core Political Ideas

This paper explores how individuals and groups interact with the UK political system and the state. Students will analyze the development of UK democracy, the differences between direct and indirect systems, and the role of political parties, manifestos, and governing mandates. Additionally, the course covers UK electoral systems, the media's influence, and voting patterns and behavior.

Paper 2: UK government and non-core political ideas

This paper covers UK government and one of five political ideas. It explores how the UK constitution and the branches of government—legislative, executive, and judiciary—determine where, how, and by whom political decisions are made. Students will examine the balance of power, recent constitutional changes, and the current location of sovereignty, providing a baseline for comparison with other global political systems.

Paper 3: Government and politics of the USA

This paper examines the US Constitution, its institutions, and debates over whether the nation truly achieves "liberty and justice for all". By studying how the US government exercises power and impacts global politics, students will compare and contrast the US and UK systems. This comparative analysis deepens their overall understanding of political theory and structures beyond their own borders.

Students complete three externally examined papers at the end of Year 13.

Each paper is 2 hours long, worth 84 marks each and each has a weighting of 33.3% of the A level.

Minimum of 5 9-5 grades in GCSE examinations including English and Maths. Grade 6 or above in GCSE History or English.

• Anthropology

• Human Social & Political Science

• History

• International development

• Law

• Journalism

• Law

• Civil Service

• Policy and Research Officer

• Sociology & Social Policy

• Parliamentary/ Politicians Assistant