Citizenship Studies

As a department, we encourage students to explore their understanding of society, politics and their role as active citizens. Students develop investigative, analytical and communication skills, enabling them to engage with real-world issues and debates. Citizenship Studies provides opportunities for students to understand how society operates and how individuals can influence change at local, national and global levels.

At Key Stage 4, students follow the AQA GCSE Citizenship Studies course. This course enables students to develop knowledge of how the UK functions as a society and democracy, and how citizens can take action to make a difference.

Key Stage 4 Curriculum Information

At KS4, students study GCSE Citizenship Studies (AQA). The course is structured around a key question: “How can citizens make a difference?”

The three core themes studied:

Life in Modern Britain – exploring identity, diversity, the role of the media and the UK’s place in the world
Rights and Responsibilities – understanding laws, justice, human rights and global agreements
Politics and Participation – learning about the UK political system and how citizens can engage in democracy

Students also complete an Active Citizenship project, where they investigate a real-world issue, plan, take action, and evaluate the impact of their work.

Course Structure

Year 10

Autumn Term: Life in Modern Britain
Spring Term: Rights & Responsibilities
Summer Term: End Rights & Responsibilities, Start Politics & Participation
- Start Active Citizenship Project

Year 11

Autumn Term: Politics & Participation

Active Citizenship Project

Spring Term: Active Citizenship
Summer Term: Revision and exam preparation

Assessment

The GCSE is assessed through two written examinations:

Paper 1 (1 hour 45 minutes)

Politics and Participation
Active Citizenship

Paper 2 (1 hour 45 minutes)

Life in Modern Britain
Rights and Responsibilities

Each paper is worth 50% of the final grade.

Students will answer a range of question types including multiple-choice, short answer, source-based and extended response questions.

Skills Developed

Citizenship Studies enables students to:

Develop critical thinking, reasoned arguments and justified conclusions
Analyse political and social issues from different perspectives
Conduct independent research and enquiry
Communicate ideas clearly in written and verbal forms
Evaluate viewpoints and use evidence effectively
Plan and carry out actions to create change in society
Reflect on and evaluate the impact of their actions

Citizenship curriculum overview.

Extra-curricular Opportunities

Students are encouraged to take part in extra-curricular activities such as CCF, student leadership, and community projects. These opportunities allow students to apply their learning in real-world contexts and further develop their confidence and leadership skills.

CAREER PATHS

Citizenship Studies supports progression into a wide range of careers including:

Law, politics, public services, journalism, social work, teaching, civil service, charity and non-profit work, international relations and community development.