This subject provides excellent preparation for a number of career routes including further study at undergraduate level and careers in areas such as social work and social policy.

Its emphasis on being able to engage with and analyse a range of abstract ideas, concepts and evidence develops the sort of flexibility of mind that is valuable for a range of different professions. Indeed,the ability to be able to develop and sustain an argument with clarity and precision is a core part of this subject.

You will be offered revision workshops as a core part of this course.

In addition, there will be opportunities for students to hear from a range of guest speakers, both inside and outside of the Sixth Form.

Our assessments employ a variety of familiar question types, including short answer and extended writing/essays, which target knowledge and understanding, application, analysis and evaluation.

Understanding of research methods, gained through classroom experience of practical sociology, will be assessed using the ‘methods in context’ format.

Students will be assessed internally on a regular basis, including through formal mock exams. There are final exams at the end of the course in Year two.

Year two assessment:

AO1: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: sociological theories, concepts and evidence of sociological research methods.

AO2: Apply sociological theories, concepts, evidence and research methods to a range of issues.

AO3: Analyse and evaluate sociological theories, concepts, evidence and research methods in order. To present arguments, make judgements, and draw conclusions.

Standard entry requirements

• At least five GCSEs at grades 9-4 including English Language and Maths (one Vocational or Technical qualification at Merit or above may be counted)

AND

• At least grade 4 (or Merit for Vocational or Technical qualifications) in any subject(s) that you have taken at GCSE and wish to continue studying at Level 3

AND

• Average GCSE (best 8) of at least 4 (38 on the old points table)

AND

• Grade 4 (or Merit), at least, in any subject previously studied
• Students will take either 3 A-Level subjects or 1 Diploma subject with 1 A-Level