Politics
Summary
Government and Politics at St John's is an Advanced Level subject only, leading to an AS qualification in the Lower Sixth and an A2 in the Upper Sixth. There is therefore no requirement to have studied the subject before. All that is needed, apart from a good foundation of GCSE passes, is an interest in current affairs, especially in the British system of government. The subject aims to widen students' critical awareness of political issues and events. It examines the structures of power and authority within the United Kingdom and shows how these compare with some other political systems. It encourages students to develop an understanding of different viewpoints and to argue a case in a fluent and logical manner. Beyond this, the subject helps students to learn about their rights and responsibilities as citizens, so that they are better equipped to participate in the democratic processes of their own society.
Course Content
The course followed is the Government and Politics specification set by the Edexcel examination board. Two units are studied in Year 12. These can be taken as a free standing course, leading to an AS qualification. Alternatively, in Year 13 they can be added to two A2 units to make up a full A Level qualification. Assessment is by written examination throughout.
The purpose of the AS units is to introduce the central ideas of politics - the concepts of democracy, participation and citizenship - and to look at how these apply in Britain today. Should our electoral system be changed? What is the role of our political parties, and how do they differ from pressure groups? We explore the important institutions of British government, and the arguments for and against changing them. Does the Prime Minister have too much power? What is the role of Parliament? Is constitutional reform necessary and desirable? In the A2 units, for Paper 3 we examine major issues in UK politics: the economy, law and order, the environment and the welfare state. Paper 4 focuses on the development of the European Union, its institutions and policies and its impact on Britain.
Looking Beyond the Classroom
Government and Politics is not simply a textbook-based subject. It is essential to follow current developments in newspapers and quality journals, and through radio and television. Indeed it is not possible to gain high marks without an ability to support answers with up to date, relevant examples. Students regularly attend lectures by leading experts and by practising politicians. The annual visit to the Houses of Parliament, hosted by the Parliamentary Education Unit, is an established feature of the calendar. St John's also has a thriving and well established Politics Society, officered by members of the Sixth Form, which has been addressed by a range of well known speakers over the years. The society has a membership which extends beyond the bounds of the College. Government and Politics at St John's is a lively option, which involves students to the full, both inside and outside the classroom.
