A-Level Politics (EDEXCEL 9PLO)

Course Overview

If you are interested in current affairs and the ways in which different views in society are managed, how conflict is resolved and where power is located, then A-level politics is the course for you.

A-level politics is a course for inquisitive minds. Studying politics will enable you to develop your understanding of the government and politics of the UK and USA, along with all the fiercely debated topics this includes. You will normally get the opportunity to take part in debates, visit the Houses of Parliament and enjoy a programme of visiting speakers. In addition, there will be leadership opportunities in a student-led politics society.

A-level politics will allow you to develop your skills of research, communication, analysis and evaluation, all of which will prepare you well for higher education. In year 12 there will be an opportunity to visit the Houses of Parliament.

You will study:

  • Component 1: UK Politics and Core Political Ideas
  • Component 2: UK Government and Non-core Political Ideas
  • Component 3: Comparative Politics

The course comprises of three components, two of which will be on UK government and politics, together with political ideas. The third component is about US politics and a comparison with the UK.  

“At first, I was unsure whether I made the right decision choosing politics. Now I never look back!  If you like class debates and current affairs, then politics is the subject for you!”

St Ivo Student

Course Code: 9PLO

Minimum Entry Requirements

  • A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English and maths 
  • Grade 5+ in GCSE English language or grade 5+ in GCSE history
  • If politics studied at GCSE grade 5+

Exam Board: Edexcel

Assessment

100% Exam:

  • Paper 1 – 33.3%
  • Paper 2 – 33.3%
  • Paper 3 – 33.3%

Choosing your post-16 options is an important decision, and St Ivo Academy Sixth Form is here to guide you. Applications are welcome from students in St Ives and beyond via the MyChoice16 platform.

Step-by-step application process

  1. Log in to your MyChoice16 account.
  2. Select ‘My Applications’. To start a new application, click ‘Start a new Application’; to continue an existing one, click ‘Continue’ next to your application.
  3. Complete all sections of your Profile Template if this is your first application. For additional applications, only ‘Course Choices’ needs to be completed.
  4. Qualifications will be uploaded by the school—this section can be skipped. Your form tutor will add a reference.
  5. Complete any remaining fields or checkboxes. Click ‘Send Application’ to submit.
  6. Your application status will update (eg. Sent, Schools Hold). The school will review your application to ensure it meets the requirements, and you may be asked to discuss it with a teacher.
  7. Monitor your application regularly and respond promptly to any notifications.
  8. All applicants will be invited to an interview before a provisional offer is made.

 

Government & Public Sector

  • Civil Service / Policy Advisor
  • Politician / Political Researcher
  • Diplomat / International Relations Specialist
  • Local Government Officer

Media & Communication

  • Journalist / Political Correspondent
  • Media Analyst / Commentator
  • Campaign Manager / PR Specialist

Other Related Careers

  • Lawyer / Legal Professional (with further study)
  • Teacher / Lecturer in Politics or Government
  • Think Tank Researcher
  • NGO or Charity Sector Roles

James Lake – James.Lake@astreastivo.org

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