Before the election: the essentials of British politics!
- Course Code: HPC132
- Dates: 09/05/24 - 13/06/24
- Time: 10:15 - 12:15
- Taught: Thu, Daytime
- Duration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: Ian McGarvie
Course Code: HPC132
Duration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
This course explores the fundamental elements of UK politics, from the essentials of the differing political systems that are present in the UK, to key political figures who have impacted politics in the UK, for better or for worse, that is for you to decide. There will be ample opportunities to discuss the pressing political matters of the day, and what sets this apart from other courses is that it cuts through the jargon, in other words, it is explained in an accessible way, enabling all to have the opportunity to really understand how politics works in the UK.
What will we cover?
- The Essentials of UK Politics will include the pros and cons of the First-Past-The-Post voting system, the functions and powers of both Houses of Parliament and the Prime Minister, and functions and origins of the main Political Parties.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Understand how politics really works in the UK and be fully equipped with unbiased knowledge for the upcoming General Election.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is introductory and everyone is welcome. No prior knowledge is necessary but a good grasp of English, an open mind, and a willingness to listen to different views are all that is required.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The course will be delivered through a mixture of lecture and discussion, with student participation invited and encouraged. Optional extend your knowledge tasks can be set if required.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
There are no additional costs, but you may wish to bring a pen and paper, or digital equivalents, for making notes.
Below is a list of media you may find interesting:
Radio:
- LBC - current affairs discussion radio show
TV
- Have I Got News For You
- Mock The Week
- Prime Ministers Questions
- Question Time
Podcasts:
- The Rest Is Politics
- The News Agents.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
HPC164 Understanding the different political systems across the United Kingdom
HPC165 Figures in British politics and society you need to know (term 2)
HPC169 Figures in British politics and society you need to know (term 3 continuation course).
Ian has taught in Adult Education in London from 1996. He holds a degree in Economics and a MSc in Politics and Administration from Birkbeck College, University of London. Ian is highly committed to adult and continuing learning and has taught politics and political history courses at Morley College and Richmond Adult and Community College and Hillcroft College, in addition to Citylit. Ian has held both teaching and academic management roles including the development of humanities courses that engage and inform students in areas including History and Politics and provide opportunities to progress to further study. He has specialised in teaching a range of courses in politics and current affairs focusing on UK governance and developments in the UK constitution. He has also taught courses on domestic and foreign policy, political parties, and assessments of political leadership. He has also taught on Access to Higher Education Courses that prepare student for degree level study.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.