Sociology
What is the curriculum trying to achieve?
Within the Social Sciences faculty we aim to provide students with a carefully sequenced learning journey in each subject, encouraging independence of thought, academic rigour and the ability to think critically about a wide range of social issues and their place within society. We work collaboratively to provide an experience for our students which is rich in critical thought, enabling all of our students to engage meaningfully with the course content for each subject.
By learning about social structures, institutions and human interaction, Sociology empowers students to think deeply and critically about the world around them. Students who choose to study Sociology develop the vital ability to have courage to creatively question the status quo and the inner workings of society. Together, we uncover the impact that our families, the media and the education system can have on our life experiences. Sociology is an intellectually rigorous subject, and we approach the challenges of theoretical analysis of society from a number of perspectives, encouraging our students to be ambitious in their academic journey. Sociology students develop strong analytical and communication skills whilst gaining a greater appreciation for diversity and consequently equality,all of which are extremely desirable to employers and will support them in navigating any future career path.
“Sociology should be taught everywhere, that's my view. Even GCSE Sociology arms you against a lifetime of spin, 'fake news' and moral panic.” Richard Osman, presenter of ‘Pointless’
How do we organise learning?
Each of our subjects organises learning to achieve our federation vision of ‘Educating today’s students for the world of tomorrow: a seamless education from 4 to 19’. Please click here to see a visual map of students’ planned ‘learning journey’ in sociology across Key Stage 5.
To see more detail on what we teach, please click the relevant links below:
Anything else?
If you have any questions about our curriculum or require more information, please contact the Head of Faculty by emailing contact@thedownsschool.org
