Our Sociology curriculum is designed to develop students’ understanding of society, social structures, and the forces that shape human behaviour. We aim to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and a deep awareness of social issues, encouraging students to question the world around them and consider how it can be improved.

We offer an inclusive and engaging curriculum that encourages all students to explore key sociological concepts, theories, and research methods. Through the study of families, education, crime, and inequality, students gain insight into the complexities of modern life and the diversity of human experience.

By the end of Key Stage 4, students will be able to:

• Understand key sociological concepts, perspectives, and debates
• Analyse patterns of behaviour and inequality in society
• Evaluate sociological research and use evidence to support arguments
• Reflect on their own values and the impact of social structures on individuals and groups
• Communicate ideas clearly using appropriate sociological terminology

Our intent is to equip students with the knowledge and skills to think critically, act ethically, and engage thoughtfully with the world around them.

Curriculum overview

Key Stage 4

Students follow the AQA GCSE Sociology specification, which introduces core areas of sociological study and research.

Topics include:

• The sociological approach: Key concepts, theories, and methods
• Families: Types of families, roles, and changes in family life
• Education: The role of education, achievement, and inequality
• Crime and deviance: Causes of crime, social control, and the criminal justice system
• Social stratification: Social class, poverty, power, and inequality
• Research methods: How sociologists investigate society using qualitative and quantitative methods

Assessment is through two written exams, testing knowledge, application, and evaluation skills.

Courses offered

• GCSE Sociology

Enrichment opportunities

We offer a range of enrichment activities to deepen students’ understanding of society and support their academic development. These include:

• Sociology Club: Exploring current social issues, documentaries, and debates
• Guest speakers: Talks from social workers, criminologists, and community leaders
• Workshops and conferences: Opportunities to engage with real-world sociology and research
• Cross-curricular projects: Links with Citizenship, Psychology, and History to explore social themes
• Social justice and volunteering projects: Involvement in campaigns and initiatives that promote equality and inclusion

These experiences help students apply sociological thinking to real-life contexts and inspire them to become active, informed members of society.