Citizenship is firmly planted in the school curriculum, and a number of events such as the war in Iraq and the Hutton Inquiry have raised the general public's interest and awareness of what goes on in government. This guide highlights some of the websites that seek to lift the lid on politics and government and make it more accessible to people of all ages.

Explore Parliament

Designed for older and younger pupils, Explore Parliament covers the work, role and place of Parliament. There are teacher support resources, as well as a political puzzle and a debating chamber, where schools can join in debates that reflect the actual business of Parliament.

10 Downing Street

This site contains news, statistics and features from all areas of government. It contains broadcasts of Prime Minister's Questions, and a virtual tour of Downing Street, as well as an introduction to different government departments and legislation.

Atlantic Council

The Atlantic Council of the United Kingdom exists to inform people about the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato). This website is aimed at teachers and students, and provides resources suitable for the study of history, politics and citizenship at Key Stage 4 and above. A students' section relates information about Nato to GCSE coursework, and there is a teachers' area with lesson plans.

Sosig

The Social Science Information Gateway (Sosig), part of the Resource Discovery Network, aims to provide a trusted source of information for researchers and practitioners in the social sciences. Its Politics section includes areas covering topics such as civil and political rights, diplomacy, elections and slavery.

British Studies Web Pages

A series of articles on these pages, produced by the British Council, give useful background information to a number of areas such as devolution and the impact of New Labour. There is also a page of links to other useful online resources.

4 Nations Child Policy Network

For parents and practitioners interested in following matters relating to child policy, the 4 Nations Child Policy Network has information covering the entire UK. It covers the latest policy developments and issues relating to children and young people in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. It includes consultations and related documents, information about legislation in progress and guides to the Parliaments and Assemblies.