The modules are led by Professor Jon Davis, alongside co-teachers Dr Michelle Clement, Dr Jack Brown and Martin Stolliday. Special attention is given to the memoirs and diaries of the prime ministers, cabinet ministers and senior officials involved in managing the central machinery of government, as well as first-hand testimony from a selection of highly-relevant and high profile guests. Classes take place within No. 10 Downing Street itself, and guest speakers have included former Prime Ministers Tony Blair, David Cameron and Theresa May, the former Prime Minister’s Principal Private Secretary Peter Hill, Lord Hennessy of Nympsfield and Cabinet Secretaries Lord Heywood, Lord Wilson of Dinton and Simon Case.

This module aims to do the following:

• Identify and recognise the British Prime Ministers from 1979 to the present day
• Provide an understanding of the institution of No.10 Downing Street, Cabinet Government and the structure of government
• Compare and contrast different Prime Ministerial styles and modes of operation
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the causes of political decision making, reflecting upon personalities, processes and policy choices
• Devise and construct in assessment an understanding of Prime Ministerial power
• Appraise and assess Prime Ministerial performance using different metrics.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, you will have:

• A detailed understanding of how successive Prime Ministers governed from 1979 to the present day
• A deep and informed understanding of the interaction between different key personalities, policies, politics and processes that explain how government really works and has worked in the UK context
• Acquired a deep and evolving understanding of the constantly-updating literature and ultra-contemporary historiography of these years
• Gained experience of using primary and secondary sources as a means of analysing the history of No.10 Downing Street
• Acquired a detailed understand of how No.10 operates currently and in the past; including trips to the very heart of government to gain an understanding of the size and ethos of No.10 Downing Street
• Undertaken a detailed investigation of at least one theme associated with this subject, using secondary and primary sources, to produce a finished piece of analysis.

The standard entry requirements comprise:

• A 2:2 honours degree or international equivalent
• A CV and personal statement outlining your reasons for study
• English language band B (for example, IELTS 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in each skill).

Assessment

You will be assessed via the following:

• Coursework (5,000 word essay): 90%
• Participation: 10%

This is an on-campus module so you will be expected to attend in-person. Exact days and times will be provided upon enrolment.