Philosophy

POLITICS

Studying those who’ve been chosen to govern is never less than fast paced and fascinating

The busy vibes in the Politics Department perhaps reflect what has been a rather busy year politically in the real world! We welcomed new staff member Nabihah Ahmed, who is a great addition to both the School and to Politics at KAS.

In April students had the chance to meet Lord Balfe, a member of the House of Lords, who spoke to students online to answer their questions. They definitely didn’t pull any punches with questions such as, “Do you think the ‘partygate’ scandal was handled appropriately?” “Should there be a more severe consequence for those involved?” and, “What is your opinion on the current living cost crisis and how would you aim to solve it?” The students asked insightful and challenging questions, and Lord Balfe was surprisingly frank in his responses, especially in relation to his views on Boris Johnson.

In May, students were able to watch a 2022 Private Members’ Bill Ballot drawn live. It was a great opportunity to watch the UK legislative process in action and see something they’d studied in class happen in real time.

The Year 12 students also took part in a mock election of minor UK political parties. They were randomly assigned groups and then chose which of The Liberal Democrats, Reform UK and Plaid Cymru they wanted to represent. The activity gave them the chance to exercise their campaigning skills with students creating posters, videos and canvassing for votes amongst the Sixth Form students, whilst learning about the policies of their party. In the end Plaid Cymru was declared the winner. This is perhaps a reflection of the campaigning skills of the group rather than any latent Welsh nationalist sentiment amongst the Sixth Form!

Takako teaching A level students

Mock election poster by Cyrus Y12

Lord Balfe talking to students