I believe there's something out there watching over us. Unfortunately, it's the government!
Woody Allen
Never has there been a more pertinent time to understand politics. The subject is offered to students in Sixth Form and incorporates a study of a range of concepts and issues. Lessons always involve responding to and analysing the latest twist in a peace process, the reasons behind an election loss, or the rights and wrongs of who has power. STAFF - Mr JRP Foster Head of Politics
- Dr DRS Gallagher
FACILITIES AND RESOURCES The subject is taught through role-play, debate, and PowerPoint presentations. Visits to Stormont and guest speakers from universities, political parties and the press are a regular feature. | |  | | | | Parliament Buildings, Stormont Estate | |
CURRICULUM In Lower Sixth, the democratic credentials of pressure groups, the validity of referendums, the difficulties in achieving and sustaining devolved government in Northern Ireland, the relevance of an unelected House of Lords and the need to reform the judiciary are among the topics encountered. In Upper Sixth, the politics of the USA is a major component, and we even try to analyse George Bush. EXTRA-CURRICULAR Students are encouraged to participate in a range of extra-curricular activities. Activities such as the National Mock Bar Trial Competition and the Model United Nations are opportunities for Sixth Formers to develop and hone their debating skills. The former involves students preparing criminal cases, with the assistance of practising barristers, and culminates in a competitive event held at the Royal Courts of Justice. Model United Nations Society gives students in the school an opportunity to bring students from Ireland, England and Europe together for a three-day event to discuss everything from AIDS to the situation in Zimbabwe. Students also travel to events within the UK and have been to the USA, winning the YALE International MUN in 2003. For more information, please see the MUN section on the College Activities page. |
