General Studies is a compulsory subject for AS students and is taken by the great majority of A2 students (unless they continue with their four other subjects at A2.)
General Studies has a number of benefits:
It is interdisciplinary and provides students with a broad based education about a range of current issues from global warming to the influence of the media, and enables them to master a variety of skills including balanced argument, interpretation of data and creative writing.
It enables students to discuss and form opinions. This prepares them for Higher Education and is always good for interviews.
It raises awareness amongst students of what it means to be a good citizen as much of the syllabus relates to moral and ethical issues.
It can be regarded as an 'insurance'subject. Many universities accept it as an A Level. If they drop a grade in another subject, General Studies may help to get them into the University of their choice.