SPECIFICATION LINK: 7152

TITLE: AQA Level 3 Advanced GCE in Politics (603/1403/5)

Why study Politics at William Farr?

Politics at William Farr is taught by knowledgeable staff who bring real insight from exam board marking and years of experience. Lessons are lively, debate-driven, and results are consistently impressive. Politics is popular at William Farr because of the quality teaching. Students extend their learning through opportunities to lead the Debating Club alongside A Level History students, leading assemblies during Parliament Week and participate in the prestigious Great Debate competition. They also have the option to travel to Washington DC as part of a joint History and Politics trip — experiences that build confidence, critical thinking, and leadership skills.

What will you study?

A Level Politics helps students understand who holds power in society and how decisions are made that affect everyday life. The course explores major questions such as taxation, drug laws, and the regulation of personal freedoms, while encouraging students to analyse ideas and the motives of individuals. It focuses on the politics of Britain, including political parties, pressure groups, protest movements, the media, and the workings of government. Students also study the political thinkers and ideologies that have shaped democracy, from Karl Marx’s socialism to John Stuart Mill’s liberalism.

In Year 13, the course expands to comparative politics, examining democracy in America and contrasting its presidential system with the UK’s parliamentary model. Assessment is through three two-hour exams: Paper 1 on UK politics, Paper 2 on comparative politics between the USA and UK, and Paper 3 on political ideologies. To succeed, students are expected to follow current events and engage in debate, developing confidence in expressing their own ideas. By the end of the course, they will have strengthened their skills in analysis, argumentation, and communication, preparing them to participate actively and knowledgeably in democratic life.

Where can Politics lead?

An A Level in Politics is highly valued by universities and employers because it develops critical analysis, persuasive communication, and a strong understanding of how power and decisions shape society. It can lead directly to careers in government and public service, such as civil service roles, policy officers, political risk analysts, or diplomatic service, as well as research and academia in areas like social research or trade union analysis. Many students also progress into law, journalism, public relations, marketing, and education, while others move into business, management, and international development. The subject’s focus on evaluating evidence, debating ideas, and understanding political systems makes Politics students adaptable and competitive across a wide range of professional fields.