The Nature of Citizenship Skills (AQA GCSE Citizenship Studies): Revision Note

What is citizenship?

• Citizenship is about the relationship between individuals and society and how people can make a positive difference in society

• It explores:

  • how people are supported by society to take part fully in public life

  • how individuals can influence decisions and bring about change

  • how society reflects shared values such as democracy, fairness and equality

  • the rights, responsibilities and duties people have as members of society

What does it mean to be a citizen?

• A citizen is a member of a country or community who:

  • has legal rights, such as protection under the law and freedom of expression

  • has responsibilities, such as obeying the law and respecting others

  • can take part in society through voting, volunteering, campaigning or community action

• Being a citizen involves:

  • Being informed about issues that affect society

    • developing knowledge and understanding of society and key issues

    • staying informed about what is happening locally and nationally

  • Having a voice and using it responsibly

    • taking part in civic life

    • following laws, voting, signing petitions or engaging in community activities

  • Taking action, alone or with others, to improve society

    • joining campaigns or groups, volunteering or representing others

    • using citizenship knowledge and skills to support and advocate for others

Citizenship skills, processes and methods

Why citizenship matters

• Citizenship helps people to:

  • understand their place in society

  • recognise their rights and responsibilities

  • respect different viewpoints

  • take informed and responsible action

• An effective citizen is informed, involved and willing to contribute to the common good

Opportunities for citizen participation

• Citizens in the UK have a range of opportunities that allow them to take part in society and influence decisions

Living within a democratic system

• Democracy encourages participation by allowing citizens to have a say in how the country is run, for example through elections or public debate

Right to free speech (within the law)

• Citizens can express opinions, criticise the government and raise concerns, as long as they do not break the law, such as those on hate speech

Right of assembly

• People are allowed to meet, protest and work with others to bring about change, such as joining demonstrations or supporting campaigns

Right to campaign on issues

• Citizens can campaign for causes they care about, such as environmental protection or better local services, using petitions or social media

Right to vote in elections

• Voting allows citizens to choose representatives and influence government decisions at local and national levels

Ability to stand for election

• Citizens who meet legal requirements can stand for public office, such as becoming a councillor or Member of Parliament

Barriers to citizen participation

• Despite these opportunities, some citizens face barriers that prevent or discourage participation

Apathy (lack of interest)

• Some people do not take part because they feel politics does not affect them or is unimportant

Belief that participation will not make a difference

• Citizens may feel their vote or actions will not change anything, reducing their motivation to get involved

Lack of trust in politicians or the political process

• Scandals or broken promises can lead to low confidence in government and discourage participation

Legal restrictions on protest and campaigning

• Public authorities, such as the police, can place limits on protests for reasons such as public safety, which may restrict participation

Lack of knowledge or skills

• Some citizens do not understand how the political system works or how to take effective action

Time pressures and personal commitments

• Work, caring responsibilities or education can make it difficult to attend meetings, campaign or volunteer