Sociology Sociology Sociology

Why Study Sociology?

At Beaulieu, our intent in A-Level Sociology is to ensure that students acquire a broad and rigorous understanding of sociological concepts, theories, and contemporary issues. We aspire to cultivate inquisitive, reflective, and critically-minded learners who can analyse the social world with confidence and independence. Through a rich and engaging curriculum, students develop the analytical, evaluative, and research skills necessary to understand complex social processes and to thoughtfully navigate the world around them.  They learn to discuss and debate contemporary and controversial issues and their worldview is enhanced and expanded.

Year 12

Students follow the AQA A-Level Sociology specification, beginning with a strong foundation in the key skills and knowledge required for advanced sociological study. Students explore Research Methods, developing an understanding of how sociologists investigate social life through a range of qualitative and quantitative approaches. They consider practical, ethical and theoretical issues within the context of research.  Alongside this, they study Sociological Theory, gaining insight into the major perspectives that shape sociological thinking.

The curriculum also includes Education with Methods in Context, where students examine the role and function of the education system, patterns of achievement, especially with respect to gender, ethnicity and class, and how sociological research methods can be applied to the study of education. In addition, students explore Families and Households, analysing the changing nature of family structures, demographic trends, and the impact of social policies on family life.

To deepen their understanding of the discipline, students also complete a mini research project, enabling them to apply theoretical and methodological knowledge to an area of sociological interest, developing independence, critical thinking, and core research skills.  This is especially beneficial to university-bound students.

Year 13

Students continue to develop their sociological understanding through the remaining components of the AQA A-Level Sociology specification. They study Crime and Deviance, examining patterns and trends of types of crime, offenders and victims within gender, ethnicity and class. They also explore explanations of criminal and deviant behaviour, the role of social control, and the impact of globalisation, media, and social policy on crime. Students will learn about the criminal justice system, prisons, prevention policies and programs, the police, changing laws, victimology and the many kinds of crime. This unit is complemented by Theory and Methods, where students deepen their understanding of sociological perspectives and methodological debates, applying them to contemporary issues and to their prior learning.

Students also explore Beliefs in Society, analysing the role of religion and belief systems in shaping social life. This includes the study of secularisation, globalisation, fundamentalism, and the relationship between religion, social change, and social stability.  We look at cults, sects, the rise of Islamic and Christian fundamentalism, the role of religion in extremist groups and terrorist acts, as well as more alternative belief systems.

Throughout Year 13, students strengthen their analytical, evaluative, and application skills in preparation for the three final examinations, all of which are equally weighted. The A-Level Sociology course is entirely exam-based, and students are supported to develop the confidence and expertise required to succeed in these rigorous assessments.