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    • Curriculum

    Sociology

    Why Choose Sociology?

    Sociology is the study of how society is structured and how individuals experience the world around them. It encourages students to take a fresh look at social behaviour, question everyday assumptions, and explore how factors such as gender, class, ethnicity, age, and the media shape our identities and opportunities.

    If you are curious about why people behave the way they do, why some groups experience disadvantage, or how social change happens, Sociology will help you develop a deeper understanding of the world — and your place within it.

     

     

     

    Course Overview – Year 12

    Year 12 provides a strong foundation in key sociological ideas and research skills.

    Socialisation and Culture

    Students explore how individuals learn to become members of society, examining the powerful role of the family, education, media and peer groups. This includes debates such as nature vs nurture and understanding how culture shapes behaviour.

    Families and Education

    Students examine changing family structures, reasons for diversity, and how different social groups experience varied outcomes within the education system. They are introduced to key sociological theories and develop analytical skills to compare and evaluate them.

    Research Methods

    Students learn how sociologists conduct research and assess the strengths and limitations of different methods. They also design and plan their own research project, helping them understand how sociological evidence is generated.

    Course Overview – Year 13

    Year 13 deepens understanding with more advanced theoretical and applied content.

    Crime and Deviance

    Students explore sociological explanations for crime, considering questions such as:

    • What causes criminal behaviour?

    • Which groups are most likely to be convicted?

    • How can society effectively reduce crime?

    Visiting speakers, including representatives from the police, demonstrate how classroom learning applies to real-world issues.

    Social Inequality

    Students analyse the causes of inequalities relating to class, gender, age and ethnicity. They evaluate whether inequality is inevitable or whether it reflects deeper power structures in society. These debates remain central to understanding modern Britain.

    Assessment

    Assessment is through three external examinations at the end of Year 13:

    • Component 1: Socialisation and Culture
      2 hours 30 minutes | 40% of A Level

    • Component 2: Methods of Sociological Enquiry
      1 hour 45 minutes | 20% of A Level

    • Component 3: Power and Stratification
      2 hours 30 minutes | 40% of A Level

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    Why Study Sociology at John Kyrle?

    At John Kyrle, Sociology is taught by experienced specialists who bring complex ideas to life. Lessons are engaging, discussion-focused and rooted in current social issues. Students are encouraged to challenge assumptions, think independently and apply their learning to real-world scenarios.

    We also offer:

    • Opportunities to design and conduct independent research

    • Links with external organisations, including the police and local community groups

    • A supportive learning environment focused on progress and confidence

    • High-quality teaching that develops strong critical thinking skills

    Where Can Sociology Take You?

    University

    Sociology is a highly respected academic subject and supports progression to a wide range of degree courses, including:

    • Sociology

    • Criminology

    • Psychology

    • Social Policy

    • Education

    • Law

    • Anthropology

    • Politics

    • Media and Communications

    Careers

    Sociology develops skills valued across many sectors. Popular career pathways include:

    • Social Work and Youth Work

    • Teaching and Education

    • Law, Policing and Probation

    • Health and Social Care

    • Journalism and Media

    • Government, Policy and Research

    • Charity and Community Development

    • Human Resources and Public Relations

    Skills for Life

    Studying Sociology helps students develop:

    • Critical thinking and problem-solving

    • Research and analytical skills

    • Written and verbal communication

    • Cultural awareness and empathy

    • The ability to evaluate evidence and form balanced arguments

    These skills are essential for both higher education and the modern workplace, making Sociology an excellent choice for students seeking a deeper understanding of society and the confidence to drive positive change.

    Teaching Staff

    • Miss Lauren Jones – Subject Leader
      sociology@jkhs.org.uk

    • Miss Olivia Phillips

    • Miss Kate Bellingham

    Specification: AS and A Level Sociology | Eduqas

    Qualification at a Glance

    Exam Board

    OCR – A Level Sociology (H580)

    Course Structure

    Year 12

    • Socialisation and Culture

    • Families and Education

    • Research Methods

    • Introduction to key sociological theories

    Year 13

    • Crime and Deviance

    • Social Inequality (class, gender, age, ethnicity)

    • Advanced sociological theory

    • Applied research skills

    Assessment

    • Component 1: Socialisation & Culture
      2 hours 30 minutes – 40%

    • Component 2: Methods of Sociological Enquiry
      1 hour 45 minutes – 20%

    • Component 3: Power & Stratification
      2 hours 30 minutes – 40%

    100% examination – no coursework

    Entry Requirements

    Students should have:

    • At least Grade 5 in GCSE English Language

    • At least Grade 5 in a Humanities or Social Sciences subject (e.g. Sociology, History, RS, Geography)

    • An interest in people, society and current issues

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