The sociology curriculum at Westfield Academy 

At Westfield Academy, we believe that Sociology provides our young people with a deep insight into the workings of society. Students will explore the complex nature of societal structures and processes in order to gain an eye-opening look into the positive and negative impacts of society on individuals and groups. The course will nurture students into knowledgeable, responsible citizens who have awareness of social issues such as inequality between social groups, prejudice and discrimination in order to be able to lead healthy, productive and happy lives. Students will learn how to effectively utilise their knowledge of social issues in constructive debates, where they can express their opinions maturely in a safe and respectful environment. 

Our sociology curriculum provides rewarding learning experiences by empowering students with intellectually challenging ideas and essential critical thinking skills. Students are supported when making mistakes to ensure they are resilient and learn from them to help achieve their potential. 

We want to offer diverse opportunities for our young people to believe in their ability to change their community for the better and expand students' perspectives through a range of studies and debates that allow for spiritual, moral, social and cultural discursive opportunities. In turn, promoting their sense of moral and social responsibility. This enables them to become active and inspiring citizens.

Sociology is an optional subject at Westfield Academy, available at GCSE and A Level.

What do students learn in Sociology?

Through the AQA specification, students are taught about key social structures, processes and issues through the following topics at GCSE:

• The Sociological Approach

• Families and Households

• Education

• Research Methods

• Crime and Deviance

• Social Stratification

At GCSE, students will develop their application, analytical, evaluation and communication skills by comparing and contrasting perspectives on a variety of social issues, building effective and reasoned arguments in order to develop a well-rounded judgement. 

Sociology in the sixth form 

At A Level, students develop their critical thinking skills with the use of empirical evidence to understand social order and change. They study explanations of social behaviour from a variety of perspectives and use this knowledge to synthesise and draw effective judgements on how impactful they are. 

• Education with methods in context

• Families and Households

• Beliefs in Society

• Crime and Deviance

• Theory, Methods and Debates.

Students will develop transferable skills including:

• Empirically investigating social facts and drawing effective conclusions.

• Analysing and evaluating perspectives to develop well communicated opinions on social issues.

• Analyse and better understand the social world.

Sociology enables high standards of progress, where staff have conversations with students about how Sociology can support their career aspirations post secondary education. Subsequently, students have the confidence to make informed decisions about what their further education choices will be. Students can pursue careers in social work, community development and public relations through the study of sociology.