Government & Politics

Politics influences all our lives in so many ways. By studying Government & Politics, students will appreciate why political participation is important, as well as developing their awareness of how political institutions operate and current political issues in the UK and EU. We promote the study and enjoyment of the subject through stimulating teaching and extended curriculum opportunities. We aim to create a life-long interest in politics throughout the school, which is so important in the 21st century.

Government and Politics A-level has been taught at WGGS for many years and is a very popular subject, with large numbers of students in Years 12 and 13, many of whom go on to study the subject at university. At present there are five politics teachers, who are also members of the History Department. We have two sixth form teaching rooms, equipped with ICT and AV resources. The School Library is well stocked with politics books and journals, as well as all daily broadsheet newspapers which students are expected to read regularly. They also use the school's ICT facilities to conduct research and create presentations.

We have a long-established Government and Politics Society (known as GAPS), run by an elected committee of Year 13 students. GAPS organises talks by visiting speakers - including politicians, journalists and representatives from pressure groups - as well as publishing its own magazine. We also hold 'mock elections', which enable students to experience political campaigning and debate issues. The turnout is always considerably higher than the real thing!

All students attend external lectures and conferences in connection with their A-level studies. They also have an opportunity to visit the UK and EU Parliaments to watch them in action. Our Government and Politics students have been invited to speak at both the Labour and Conservative Party Conferences and have been complimented for their perceptive and lively views.