Course code
Attendance
Full time
Duration
2 years
Intake
September only

Politics is ultimately about people, but most political decisions are made by a branch of government whose roles and powers are determined by a set of rules. Government and Politics is an interesting course that allows you to delve into the way society is governed and consider how power is gained, maintained and lost. Looking at the ways the UK and other societies are governed gives you the backdrop to how these countries run today, and the parts you can play now and in the future.

Government and Politics A-level involves learning about the concepts behind politics as well as examining specific models of government. As a student on this course you will make comparisons, assess levels of success, explore events and consequences, and debate differing viewpoints.

Politicians take an active role in running a country, both at a local and national level. Understanding the mechanisms that promote stability and progress in a country is something you will learn during the course.

Government and Politics A-level fits well with other A-levels such as History, Sociology, Law and English.

Component 1: UK Politics

Component 2: UK Government

Component 3: Comparative Politics

These components cover topics such as:

Democracy and participation

Political parties

Electoral systems

Voting behaviour and the media

Liberalism

Conservatism

Socialism

Pressure groups

Human Rights Act 1998

Equality Act 2010

Electoral systems

Referendums

Political viewpoints

100% exams containing essay style questions and a source containing political information as text and data such as pie charts, tables and simple graphs.

Positive Futures is a set of essential qualities, embedded throughout your study programme, that we seek to develop in all students: 

  • Commitment
  • Collaboration
  • Confidence
  • Resilience

You will also engage in the Positive Futures Careers Programme, developing key employability skills through a diverse range of activities including work placements, volunteering, employer talks, industry study visits and employment and university fairs.

For A-level Government & Politics: 6 GCSEs at grade 9-4 (to include 3 GCSEs at grade 9-4 and 3 GCSEs at grade 9-5). Requires grade 9-6 in English Language or English Literature.

As a Bury College student you will have access to a wide range of enrichment opportunities which will contribute to your personal growth and development and support your academic studies. 

These may include:

  • Art Club
  • Chess Club
  • Dance, Drama and Singing Workshops
  • Duke of Edinburgh Award
  • Gaming Hub
  • Music Club
  • Pride Club
  • Student Ambassador Scheme
  • A wide range of sport including Badminton, Cricket, Football, Fitness Training, Nerf, Netball, Volleyball and Table Tennis.

Please Note: We attempt to ensure that all information contained within this website is correct and up-to-date. However, some details may change as we review and update our provision. Although every effort is made to provide the teaching, examination, assessment and other services detailed on this website and in our other publications, Bury College cannot guarantee the provision of such programmes, services, facilities and fees. Bury College reserves the right to amend, withdraw, alter or amalgamate any of the courses, locations and facilities detailed within at any time. Should circumstances require such amendments, Bury College undertakes to use all reasonable steps to minimise the resultant disruption to those services and most importantly to students.

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Catering students in new facilities Catering students developing their skills in the new Bury College Bitsro

The start of the new academic year saw students and staff from our Catering courses move into brand-new facilities.