SPEC (Social, Political and Economic Challenges)
What is SPEC?
SPEC is a bespoke interdisciplinary course, designed and created by City staff to align with the needs and interests of our students. It aims to equip students with the awareness and critical thinking skills necessary to engage as socially conscious and active members of society. The course explores key challenges facing the UK today while also addressing the complexities of global relationships.
Why study SPEC?
Through SPEC, students will develop the knowledge, tools, and confidence to evaluate pressing issues and propose meaningful solutions. They will be encouraged to integrate their learning across disciplines, preparing them for university and beyond.
Rather than relying on traditional examinations, SPEC emphasises real-world impact. In the first module, students will create a manifesto and present it to an external panel of experts. For the second module, they will produce a documentary, demonstrating their ability to analyse and communicate complex ideas effectively.
Our Staff
Curriculum
Domestic challenges in a time of economic uncertainty
Students will examine key challenges facing the UK, including government structure, fiscal policy, economic issues, immigration, and the welfare state. They will then identify a specific local issue that is important to them and propose a solution, presenting their ideas in a formal pitch.
Global challenges in a time of geopolitical and environmental instability
The second module will explore the UK’s position in the global landscape, introducing key concepts of international relations, including how nations define their borders and the impact of war, peace, and economics in shaping them. Students will also examine the role of supranational organisations, international agreements and the Declaration of Human Rights in global governance.
Model United Nations/Mock Conferences of the Parties (COP)
During the first half of the autumn term in year 11, SPEC students will work together to research and organise either a Mock Conference of Parties (COP) or a Model United Nations (MUN) conference for year 9 students. This experience will allow them to deepen their understanding of international collaboration, as well as the challenges and barriers to global development.
'The new research-based SPEC acts as an interdisciplinary bridge to university studies in the social sciences, focusing on the UN sustainable development goals.'
