Politics
at South Devon College, Paignton · college
What the college says
If you're interested in current affairs, debating ideas, and understanding how power shapes the world, A Level Politics at South Devon College offers a dynamic and thought-provoking exploration of political systems, ideologies, and institutions. This course equips you with the tools to critically analyse politics in the UK and beyond, developing your ability to form well-evidenced arguments and think independently. You don’t need prior political knowledge to succeed, just curiosity and a willingness to engage with new ideas. From the start, you’ll dive into the key principles of democracy, exploring how political participation works and asking big questions like: does voting really matter, and how can democracy be improved? As the course progresses, you'll examine how the UK Government functions, debating topics such as the power of Prime Ministers, the effectiveness of Parliament, and the role of judges in protecting civil liberties. You’ll also explore the UK Constitution and assess how it shapes governance and political accountability. You’ll investigate political parties, their ideologies, and policy positions, and learn about the UK's electoral systems, asking whether reforms are needed to make elections fairer or more effective. Beyond the ballot box, you’ll analyse the influence of pressure groups, protest movements, and other forms of political engagement, considering whether Britain is facing a crisis in participation. In your second year, the focus shifts to the vib
What you need to get on
You must have a GCSE Grade 5(B) in English, You must have a GCSE Grade 4(C) in Maths, You must have 5 GCSEs at Grade 4(C) or above
How you are assessed
Academic subjects, mostly exams, three or four at once. The traditional route to university.
What this level means
The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.
Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?
Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.
Where it runs
Vantage Point Main Building
Long Road, Paignton, TQ4 7EJ
DaytimeClassroom basedCheck the journey
Start dates
- 14 September 2026 · Paignton
Who else teaches this exact qualification
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