United Kingdom · National Curriculum Attainment Targets
Year 9 Citizenship
This course examines the mechanics of British democracy and the evolution of the justice system. Students explore their roles as active citizens through the lens of human rights, international law, and the ethical challenges of the modern digital age.

01The Pillars of British Democracy
An investigation into the UK parliamentary system, the role of the monarch, and the strength of the constitution.
Students will explore the uncodified nature of the UK constitution, examining its key sources and principles.
This lesson traces the historical development of the British monarchy, from absolute power to constitutional role.
This lesson examines the contemporary ceremonial and constitutional roles of the British monarch.
Students will investigate the principle of parliamentary sovereignty and its implications for UK law-making.
Exploring how power is distributed between the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.
Students will investigate the functions of the House of Commons, including law-making and scrutiny.
An examination of the composition, powers, and ongoing debates surrounding the reform of the House of Lords.
Analysis of the First Past the Post system versus proportional representation and the impact on voter choice.
Students will explore the main political parties in the UK, their core ideologies, and their role in elections.
Examining voter turnout, reasons for participation, and barriers to engagement in the democratic process.
Examining the relationship between Westminster and the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Understanding the function of the Civil Service in implementing government policy and maintaining impartiality.
Exploring the structure and functions of local councils and their impact on daily life.

02Justice, Law, and the Individual
A deep dive into the British legal system, the judiciary, and the principles of criminal and civil law.
This lesson introduces students to the different sources of law in the UK, including statute law, common law, and EU law's historical impact.
An overview of the hierarchy and functions of different courts in the UK legal system.
Introduction to the fundamental principles of criminal law, including elements of a crime and types of offenses.
Tracing the path of a criminal case from arrest through to sentencing and the role of the jury.
Evaluating the effectiveness of retribution, rehabilitation, and deterrence in the penal system.
Understanding how individuals settle disputes regarding contracts, negligence, and family law.
Exploring methods like mediation and arbitration as alternatives to court proceedings in civil cases.
This lesson explores the structure of the UK judiciary and the principle of judicial independence.
An examination of how the legal system treats young offenders, focusing on rehabilitation and prevention.
Exploring the challenges individuals face in accessing legal advice and representation, and the role of legal aid.
This lesson investigates the powers of the police and the mechanisms for holding them accountable.
Examining the rights of victims within the justice system and the support services available to them.
Exploring the fundamental principle of the rule of law and its importance in a democratic society.

03Human Rights and International Law
Exploring the origins of universal rights and the UK's obligations under international treaties.
Analyzing the historical context and the global impact of the 1948 declaration.
Examining the origins and key provisions of the European Convention on Human Rights.
Examining how the European Convention on Human Rights is integrated into British domestic law.
An introduction to the principles and sources of international law, and how it differs from domestic law.
Investigating the role of the UN and the International Criminal Court in managing global disputes.
Exploring the legal framework for refugees and asylum seekers, and the UK's international obligations.
An examination of the most severe international crimes and the efforts to prevent and prosecute them.
Students will investigate the structure and functions of the United Nations and its role in maintaining international peace and security.
Exploring the ethics and effectiveness of international aid, and the UK's role in global development.
An examination of human rights in the digital age, including privacy, surveillance, and freedom of expression online.
Investigating the intersection of global health challenges and human rights, including access to healthcare.
Exploring the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and its impact globally and in the UK.
Examining the concept of environmental rights and the legal and ethical arguments for their recognition.

04The Power of the Press and Media
Analyzing the role of a free press in a democracy and the challenges posed by the digital information age.
Debating the balance between the public's right to know and the individual's right to privacy.
Exploring the essential functions of a free press in a democratic society, including informing and scrutinizing.
Exploring how echo chambers and algorithmic bias influence political opinions and voting behavior.
Developing critical literacy skills to identify bias and manipulation in political messaging.
An investigation into the concentration of media ownership and its potential impact on journalistic independence and public discourse.
Exploring the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists and the codes of conduct that guide their profession.

05Active Citizenship and Social Change
Equipping students with the tools to participate in democratic life through campaigning and advocacy.
Examining how organized groups influence government policy outside of the election cycle.
Investigating the impact of local initiatives and the role of the voluntary sector in supporting society.
Analyzing the effectiveness of e-petitions and hashtag activism in changing national laws.
Students will learn practical skills for planning and executing a campaign on a social issue.
An examination of how public opinion is formed, measured, and its influence on policy-making.
Exploring avenues for young people to engage in political and social decision-making processes.

06The Global Economy and Ethics
Understanding the UK's place in the global market and the ethical implications of consumer choices.
Evaluating how the government collects revenue and the ethics of wealth redistribution.
Exploring the impact of globalization on workers' rights in developing nations.
Considering the responsibility of citizens and states in addressing the climate crisis.
Understanding the legal rights of consumers and the ethical choices involved in purchasing goods and services.
Exploring how individuals and companies can make ethical financial decisions and contribute to social good.
An overview of the economic, social, and cultural effects of increasing global interconnectedness.