GCSE

Edexcel GCSE Citizenship Studies Revision

Adaptive practice aligned to the Edexcel (Pearson) specification. 8 topics, exam-style questions, and instant AI feedback.

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About Edexcel GCSE Citizenship Studies

Edexcel, part of Pearson, offers internationally recognised GCSE and A-Level qualifications. Their specifications emphasise real-world application and are popular in both state and independent schools.

GCSE Citizenship Studies covers the political, legal, and social systems of the UK and how citizens can participate in democracy. You will study topics including rights and responsibilities, the legal system, parliament and government, the UK economy, global issues, and active citizenship.

Topics in Edexcel GCSE Citizenship Studies

1 Democracy & Government

2 Rights & Responsibilities

3 Law & Justice

4 The Economy

5 Active Citizenship

6 Politics & Participation

7 Global Issues

8 Community Action

Study Tips for Edexcel Citizenship Studies

Learn the structure of the UK political system in detail: the roles of the House of Commons, House of Lords, and the monarchy; how a bill becomes law; and the difference between local, national, and devolved government.

Know the key rights documents — the Human Rights Act 1998, the Equality Act 2010, and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Be able to cite specific rights from these documents and explain how they apply in practice.

Follow current affairs and link news stories to Citizenship topics. Being able to reference a recent Supreme Court case, a new government policy, or a protest movement shows the examiner you can apply your knowledge to the real world.

For your active citizenship project, choose an issue you genuinely care about and plan your action carefully. Document every step — the problem, your research, your action, and the impact — as this forms your assessed coursework or exam content.

Exam Tips for Edexcel Citizenship Studies

For extended response questions, present a balanced argument that considers multiple perspectives — different political viewpoints, the views of different stakeholders, and evidence from current affairs or case studies.

Use specific legal and political terminology. Write parliamentary sovereignty rather than the government makes the rules, or judicial review rather than the courts checking on the government. Precise language earns marks.

When asked about your active citizenship, give specific details about what you did, why you chose that action, and what impact it had. Reflect honestly on what worked and what you would do differently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is GCSE Citizenship Studies assessed?

Typically two written exam papers, each around 1 hour 45 minutes. Some exam boards also include an element of assessed active citizenship. The papers cover politics and participation, life in modern Britain, and rights and responsibilities.

Is GCSE Citizenship the same as PSHE?

No. GCSE Citizenship is a rigorous academic qualification that is examined and graded like any other GCSE. PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic education) is a broader programme that is not examined at GCSE level.

Is GCSE Citizenship respected?

It is a legitimate GCSE that is accepted by employers and most further education providers. It is particularly valued for careers in law, politics, and public services. Some competitive university courses may prefer more traditional subjects alongside it.

What is active citizenship?

Active citizenship is about taking informed, responsible action on a social or political issue. For the GCSE, you will plan and carry out a citizenship action — such as a campaign, a community project, or engagement with a local councillor — and evaluate its impact.