Government and politics of the UK

The Government and Politics of the UK is a core component of the AQA A-Level Politics course, focusing on the structures, processes, and actors that shape British political life. This topic covers the constitution, Parliament, the Prime Minister and Cabinet, the judiciary, and the relationships between these institutions. Understanding how power is distributed and exercised in the UK is essential for analysing contemporary political issues, such as Brexit, devolution, and the role of the Supreme Court.

This topic matters because it provides the foundational knowledge needed to evaluate the effectiveness and legitimacy of the UK's political system. Students will explore key debates, such as whether the UK constitution is fit for purpose, whether Parliament is sovereign, and whether the executive has become too powerful. By examining these debates, students develop critical thinking skills and the ability to construct well-supported arguments, which are vital for exam success and informed citizenship.

Within the wider AQA A-Level Politics syllabus, this topic connects to 'UK Politics' (e.g., democracy, elections) and 'Political Ideas' (e.g., conservatism, liberalism). It also provides a basis for comparative politics if studying US politics. Mastery of this topic enables students to understand the dynamics of British governance and to engage with current affairs from a political science perspective.