Aims and philosophy

The aim of this course is to develop an understanding of the nature of politics, both theoretically, through the study of contemporary ideologies, and practically, through examining the operation of the United Kingdom political system. Students develop an awareness of the increasingly complex nature of UK politics, and the challenges it faces.

Curriculum by year-group

AS: In Unit 1, 'People and Politics', students gain an introduction to the study of politics by exploring certain key concepts in political discourse. The focus of the module is on the nature of participation in politics and in the UK in particular. Democracy is explored as a concept and then in its operational form in the UK. Students are required to assess the state of democracy in the UK, and how it could be enhanced. Participation is explored through an analysis of political parties, voting systems and the role of pressure groups in UK society. In Unit 2, 'Governing the UK', students are introduced to the major governmental processes within the UK. They are encouraged to develop a critical understanding of the role and effectiveness of key institutions and the relationship between them in the process of multilevel governance. There is an analysis of the state of the Constitution, together with the operation and effectiveness of Parliament and Cabinet. The role of the Judiciary is explored against the backdrop of the incorporation of European laws and rights.The focus of both AS modules is on contemporary debate and reform, together with proposals for future reform.

A-level: At A-level students study political ideologies. In Unit 3, 'Introducing Political Ideologies', students are introduced to the study of ideologies, and examine liberalism, conservatism, socialism and anarchism. In Unit 4, 'Other Ideological Traditions', an examination is made of those traditions that have developed out of, or emerged in opposition to, liberalism, conservatism and socialism. The ideologies studied are nationalism, feminism, ecologism and multiculturalism.

Outside the classroom

Visits are made to Parliament and the European Union. Study is augmented by well-known speakers visiting to address the Palmerston Society. Recent speakers include:

• Michael Howard, former leader of the Conservative Party
• Lord Strathclyde, Leader of the Conservative Party in the House of Lords
• Nigel Farage, Leader of UKIP

The department is well provided with ICT resources and textbooks and, through the generosity of Sir John Page OH, former MP for Harrow West, recently acquired a full set of Hansard, the record of Parliamentary proceedings, covering the years 1960 to 1987.