Citizenship

GCSE Citizenship aims is to develop knowledgeable, thoughtful and active citizens who understand how democracy, law and society operate within the United Kingdom and the wider world. The curriculum aims to build students’ political literacy, critical thinking and confidence so that they can engage with contemporary issues and participate responsibly in democratic life.  

Students are encouraged to explore different viewpoints, challenge misinformation, and develop respect for equality, diversity and the rule of law. Through Citizenship education, students recognise that their voices matter and that individuals can play an active role in shaping their communities and society. 

GCSE Citizenship Studies provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to understand how political systems, laws and social structures influence everyday life. The course supports students in becoming informed and responsible members of society who understand both their rights and their responsibilities as citizens. 

Students study four key themes from the AQA GCSE Citizenship Studies specification: 

• Life in Modern Britain – exploring British values, identity and diversity, migration, the role of the media, and the influence of national and international organisations within society. 
• Rights and Responsibilities – examining human rights, the legal system, the rule of law, and how rights are protected and balanced within a democratic society. 
• Politics and Participation – understanding how the UK is governed, including Parliament, elections, political parties, and the role of pressure groups and campaigning in influencing decision-making. 
• Active Citizenship – applying learning to real-world issues by investigating a topic of concern and planning action to create awareness or bring about change within the community. 

A central feature of the course is the Active Citizenship project, where students research a social or political issue and take practical action. This develops important transferable skills including research, communication, collaboration, evaluation and informed decision-making. 

The qualification is assessed through two written examinations at the end of Year 11: 

• Paper 1: Active Citizenship and Politics and Participation 
• Paper 2: Life in Modern Britain and Rights and Responsibilities 

Both examinations assess students’ knowledge, understanding, analysis and evaluation through a range of question types, including extended written responses based on real-life political and social issues. 

Students who choose this GCSE option benefit from a wide range of enrichment opportunities, including visits from the local Member of Parliament and an annual trip to Westminster. These experiences allow learners to engage directly with political processes, broaden their understanding of government, and gain valuable real‑world insights that support their studies. 

Through GCSE Citizenship Studies, students leave school with a stronger understanding of democracy, society and the law, alongside the skills and confidence needed to participate actively and responsibly in modern Britain.