This subject gives students an insight into the world of power (ie how it is won and used once won) and politics (for example how do political structures balance personal freedoms with the need to make executive decisions). Politics at Duff Miller is a popular, successful and challenging modular A-level and is grounded in the belief that it is essential to be aware of the political forces in our lives.
Students are encouraged to approach the subject in an active way. The College organised a debate between the leading candidates in the 1999 by-election when Michael Portillo was elected MP. In 2002 AS students took part in a Question Time style debate with local MPs including Karen Buck from Labour and Michael Portillo.
Politics speakers have included the European Green Party MP for the South-East Caroline Lucas and Danny Finkelstein from Conservative Central Office. Future politics events will include trips to the House of Lords and further debates.
All major Government and Politics options are offered with specialist staff teaching different options. The recent appointment of Michael Buehle has allowed us to teach American and international politics from a perspective informed by personal experience as Michael is a former candidate for office in the US, having stood for the post of Mayor in Flemington, New Jersey. Ideologies are also a popular choice with students who find that it complements the work they have done in modern history.
Students enjoy the opportunity to discuss controversial issues ranging from global conflict after September 11th to strikes on the tubes. Students are encouraged in politics to think for themselves and use the media to improve their understanding.
The Government and Politics staff have strong institutional links with Goldsmiths College, Birkbeck College and the University of Kent at Canterbury. Students are given detailed advice helping them to complete University Entry forms and prepare for Oxbridge interviews.
The A2/AS courses are taught using past papers with a strong emphasis on examination technique. Timed practice and regular mocks are used to guarantee success at the full A-level.
Government and politics courses lead to interesting and lucrative career choices and the A-level is popular for university entrance. The A-level is in short both enjoyable and informative.
