At Leigh Academy Minster, Global Politics equips learners with the knowledge and critical curiosity to understand how power, sovereignty, legitimacy, and interdependence shape the modern world. Aligned with our vision “Where ambition takes flight”, the IB Diploma Programme in Global Politics fosters informed, compassionate, and internationally minded thinkers.
The subject offers a unique opportunity to study politics through multiple lenses—local, national, and global. Students engage with real-world case studies and pressing issues such as peace and conflict, rights and justice, and development and sustainability. In doing so, they develop the skills and perspectives necessary to navigate and influence an increasingly interconnected world.
Global Politics at LAM reflects our academy values: students develop Ambition through rigorous inquiry into political systems, Character by evaluating ethical dilemmas and diverse perspectives, Achievement through research-led assessment and debate, and Responsibility through a commitment to active global citizenship.
The Global Politics curriculum at LAM aims to develop learners who can critically investigate and evaluate political concepts, systems, and issues. Through the IB Diploma Programme, students:
- Explore and evaluate power in contemporary global politics.
- Examine the roles of state and non-state actors within political systems.
- Analyse political issues and challenges from multiple perspectives.
- Develop lifelong skills in research, argumentation, and collaboration that support active global citizenship.
The course builds pupils’ ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and apply political knowledge to real-world contexts. Students also complete an Engagement Project, enabling them to investigate political issues directly within their communities and reflect on the responsibilities of participation in civic life.
This curriculum prepares students for further study in politics, international relations, law, and related disciplines, as well as careers in government, NGOs, media, and global organisations.
The Global Politics course is structured around a core foundation and three thematic studies:
- Core topics – power, sovereignty, legitimacy, and interdependence.
- Thematic studies – Peace and Conflict, Rights and Justice, Development and Sustainability.
In Year 12, students begin by exploring core concepts through contemporary case studies, ensuring they can frame global issues with conceptual clarity. They then apply this knowledge to the thematic studies, deepening their understanding through comparison and debate.
In Year 13, learners undertake their Engagement Project and, for HL students, extended inquiries into global political challenges. This progression consolidates knowledge, develops independence, and fosters analytical and evaluative skills needed for assessment and beyond.
Our Global Politics curriculum is inclusive, accessible, and challenging for all learners. Lessons are scaffolded with clear success criteria, pre-teaching of key vocabulary, and structured debates to support students of all abilities.
SEND and disadvantaged students benefit from targeted feedback, guided case study frameworks, and adapted resources, ensuring equity of access. High attainers are stretched through independent research, complex case analysis, and evaluative essay tasks. Our high expectations and supportive ethos ensure every student can thrive in Global Politics.
Global Politics at LAM enhances cultural capital by connecting students to global debates, institutions, and voices that shape the world. Students examine contemporary political issues—from climate negotiations to human rights struggles—while comparing diverse perspectives across cultures.
Enrichment opportunities include participation in debates, visits to institutions such as Parliament, the United Nations Association, or embassies, and engage with guest speakers from charities, law, journalism, and international organisations. Career-focused opportunities include exploring pathways into diplomacy, international development, journalism, law, and public service, helping students see the tangible value of their studies.
These experiences deepen understanding, broaden horizons, and empower students to act as informed, principled citizens in their local communities and beyond.
