Government and Politics

Examination Board: EDEXCEL (Website)

Why study Government and Politics?

Government and Politics is the most popular Arts subject at Welbeck with a content specifically centred on the future careers of most of the students here. The new specification has a focus on the UK and our role in the world and in global politics. Elements include foreign policy commitments and membership of international peacekeeping organisations. Students will develop a crucial understanding of world affairs and an understanding of the power struggle between the states of the world.

At AS the emphasis is on UK domestic politics with a consideration of how democracy operates in the UK through a study of the political parties, pressure groups and electoral processes. This is further developed through a consideration of our constitution, judicial process and the processes of our parliamentary system.

At A2 the emphasis is on consideration of Structures of Global Politics including the balance of power between states based on military and economic strength. Study of major international organisations including the United Nations, NATO and G8 and their role in conflict resolution. Global political issues including Conflict, War, Terrorism and Poverty are considered with contemporary examples such as the War on Terror, the Middle East, Sudan, Chechnya etc.

• It offers a balance to the mathematical and science subjects and the skills developed in Politics – debating, reading, short answer and essay writing – are all vital skills which will help in your chosen career.
• The course will significantly improve your knowledge of current events and world affairs.
• It is both interesting and enjoyable!
• Students have scored in the top ten nationwide and Politics at Welbeck has received an award from the Good Schools Guide for examination results.
• You do not have to have studied Politics before; you just need to be interested.

Debates Include:

• Where are the major conflicts in the world today and what are their causes?
• Where will the wars of the future be fought?
• Why is the United Nations unable to resolve the conflict in the Middle East?
• Who will the dominant world powers be in the future?
• How did the election of George Bush change the world?
• Does NATO have a significant future?
• Did Iraq, Iran, Syria, Cuba, North Korea and Libya deserve to be considered Rogue States?
• Where will the war against terror lead to next and are the Taliban really finished?
• Who will win the next UK General Election?
• Will the Devolution process lead to a Cornish Assembly and to independence for Scotland and Wales?
• Does our political system need a House of Lords and Monarch?
• Are we losing political power to the European Union?

Trips

• Lower Sixth Trip to Westminster (November 2009)