Page 45 - Sixth Form Courses 2026-2028

A LEVEL
POLITICS

OVERVIEW Edexcel A level Politics is a dynamic and thought-provoking qualification designed for
students eager to understand the complexities of political systems, ideologies, and
national governance. This course provides a comprehensive exploration of how power is
distributed and contested, the impact of political decision-making on society, and the
significance of active political engagement. It offers critical insights into contemporary
political debates, making it essential for anyone interested in the mechanisms of
democracy, the influence of ideaologies, and the workings the UK and US political
systems.

APPROACH The Edexcel A level Politics course is structured to promote analytical thinking and
debate, encouraging students to engage with current political issues and case studies.
With a focus on building evaluative skills, the course combines theoretical knowledge
with practical examples, allowing students to connect political concepts to real-world
scenarios. Emphasis is placed on developing critical arguments, understanding diverse
perspectives, and exploring the evolving nature of politics. Lessons are interactive,
combining discussions, practice assessments, presentations, and the analysis of political
structures and ideologies. To ensure a well-rounded and engaging learning experience,
we also offer a wide-ranging enrichment programme, comprising trips to parliament and
the Supreme Court, attendance at the PolEcon conference in London, and our own
Minerva Lectures, Brilliance Breakfasts and a range of guest speakers and events (such as
the Millfield Election Hustings, or the annual History and Politics Conference).

COURSE OUTLINE The course is divided into three main components/papers:
1. UK Politics and Core Political Ideas: Students will explore the workings of the UK
political system, exploring topics such as democracy, the role of Parliament, the power
of the Prime Minister, and the influence of political parties. Additionally, they will study
key ideologies like liberalism, conservatism, and socialism, examining how these ideas
shape policy and governance.
2. UK Government and None-core Political Ideas: This section focuses on the structure
and functions of the UK government, constitutional principles, and the balance of power
between institutions. Students also investigate a ‘non-core’ additional political ideology,
nationalism, including its different strands and application to real-world examples.
3. Comparative Politics (US Politics): In this component, students study US Politics,
gaining insight into the American political system, including US voting behaviour, the US
Constitution, and institutions such as the Presidency, Congress and the US Supreme
Court, while consistently comparing and contrasting with the UK system and its
counterpart elements.
FURTHER INFORMATION Edexcel A level Politics equips students with the skills needed for critical analysis,
argument construction, and an appreciation of diverse viewpoints, laying a strong
foundation for future studies in Politics, International Relations, Law, and beyond, and
careers in journalism, Law, academia/education, governance and many other areas.
Students taking this subject also need to demonstrate a strong interest in politics and be
willing to read about and research current political events, as well as be comfortable
writing essays. This A level can work well with any combination of subjects, although the
most common might be History, English, Economics, Philosophy, or Modern Languages.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS At least grade 6 (B) in GCSE English Language is essential.

EXAM BOARD AND 9PL0
SPECIFICATION Edexcel AS & A level Politics (2017) | Pearson qualifications

CONTACT Head of History and Politics
Mr M Howard
howard.m@millfieldschool.com

43 MILLFIELD SIXTH FORM 2026-2028