Social Sciences

Introduction

The Social Sciences Department offers GCSE and A Levels in Sociology and Psychology. We also offer BTEC Health & Social Care at Level 2 and Level 3. 

KS4

GCSE Sociology
Students have the opportunity to study the sociology of the family, education, mass media, crime and deviance, social inequalities and social research methods. Students are encouraged to question evidence and issues and develop their critical and evaluation skills. There is a smooth progression from GCSE to A-level Sociology.

GCSE Citizenship
GCSE Citizenship is a subject growing in scope and popularity; it explores topics like democracy, government, law, rights, responsibilities, and community and allows young people to understand how the society they live in really works. Citizenship produces more informed, more engaged young people and allows them to develop their investigative, evaluative and critical thinking skills. It's a great introduction to political and social life for those students looking to study law, politics, economics or any other social science

GCSE Psychology
GCSE Psychology offers an engaging and effective introduction to psychology with fresh and modern content. Students will learn the fundamentals of the subject including units of work on memory, Perception, Development, Research methods, Social Influence, Language, thought and communication, Brain and Neuropsychology and Psychological problems.

OCR Level 1/Level 2 Cambridge National in Health and Social Care

The OCR Level 1/Level 2 Cambridge National in Health and Social Care offers students a comprehensive introduction to the health and social care sector. It is equivalent to one GCSE (graded 9–1) and provides a strong foundation for progression to further study, such as the BTEC AAQ Level 3 qualification offered at our school.

The course is assessed through three units:

• R032: Principles of care in health and social care (Exam Unit)
  This externally assessed unit focuses on the rights of service users, person-centred values, effective communication, and safeguarding practices. Students explore how these principles are applied in real-world health and social care settings to ensure high standards of care and protection.

• R033: Supporting individuals through life events (Coursework Unit)
  In this unit, students investigate how individuals grow and develop through life stages and how various life events—both expected and unexpected—impact their physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and financial wellbeing. Learners also research and recommend appropriate sources of support tailored to individual needs.

• R035: Health promotion campaigns (Coursework Unit)
  This unit enables students to explore current public health challenges and the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles. Learners plan, deliver, and evaluate their own health promotion campaign, developing skills in research, communication, and public engagement. 

Together, these units ensure students gain a well-rounded understanding of health and social care environments and the roles professionals play in supporting individuals and promoting wellbeing.

KS5

A-Level Sociology
Sociology provides students with the exciting opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the world around them and reflect on social issues that are often relevant to their own social experiences. The curriculum includes the key sociological themes of socialisation, culture, identity, power, control and inequality. Students will also study the fascinating new topic of globalisation and the digital social world, an area that’s extremely relevant to the way we communicate as a society today.

A-Level Psychology
Psychology offers a great opportunity for students’ to apply knowledge and understanding rather than just acquiring knowledge, thereby developing students’ transferable skills of analysis, evaluation and critical thinking. Students will study units including social influence, memory, attachment, psychopathology, biopsychology, data handling and analysis and research methods.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 AAQ National in Health and Social Care

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 AAQ National in Health and Social Care is an Alternative Academic Qualification equivalent to one A Level. It is designed for post-16 learners who are interested in developing applied knowledge and practical skills relevant to the health and social care sector. This qualification supports progression to higher education and careers in health, social care, and related fields.

The course is structured around a combination of externally and internally assessed units:

• Unit 1: Human Lifespan Development (External Assessment)
  This unit explores human growth and development across life stages, from conception to later adulthood. Students examine how physical, intellectual, emotional, and social development is influenced by life events and health factors.

• Unit 2: Human Biology and Health (External Assessment)
  Learners study the structure and function of the human body, including major systems and common disorders. The unit also covers how lifestyle choices and health conditions affect physiological functioning.

• Unit 3: Principles of Health and Social Care Practice (Internal Assessment)
  This unit focuses on the values and principles that underpin effective care and support. Students learn how to meet individual needs while maintaining dignity, respect, and safeguarding.

• Unit 5: Promoting Health Education – Focuses on health campaigns and behaviour change.

  •  

Assessment is split evenly: 50% external exams (Units 1 & 2) and 50% internal coursework (Unit 3 and Unit 5). This balance allows students to demonstrate both academic understanding and practical application.

The BTEC AAQ is ideal for students aiming to pursue careers such as nursing, midwifery, social work, paramedicine, occupational therapy, and more. It builds transferable skills in communication, empathy, and critical thinking—highly valued by universities and employers alike.

Qualifications

KS4

KS5

 

Staff