Sociology

The Sociology team consists of:-

  • Mr Garner (Head of Department)
  • Mrs Garner
  • Mr Simon
  • Miss Teale
  • Miss Robbins

Our KS5 Sociology Department is led Mr Garner, Head of Department. He is also an Assistant Headteacher and a Specialist Leader of Education. There are an additional three subject specialists who join him in delivering this highly popular A Level course.

KS5

Sociology is delivered in Year 12 and Year 13. There are currently around 80 students in Year 12 and around 80 students in Year 13. The AQA specification is followed, providing students with the opportunity to study Families & Households, Education, Research Methods, Beliefs in Society, Crime and Deviance (Criminology) and Sociological Theory. Many of our students decide to study Sociology at university. Others opt to study related subjects, including Law, Politics, Psychology, Criminology, Criminal Justice and Human Geography.

Assessment

We have two fundamental aims: that students will develop a passion for sociology and that they succeed! Assessment takes place frequently and involves using past examination-style questions to help monitor progress and achievement. These take place at different times during each half term. Precise, individualised feedback always helps to ensure that students make as much progress as possible. Students know that they can seek additional help and support by approaching the department; we are always happy to help!

Extra-curricular opportunities

We encourage our students to pay a visit to Reading Crown Court. Open days are a useful way of understanding how the criminal justice system operates, and allow students to see trials in progress. Exploring websites, including the census, Official for National Statistics and the Home Office are interesting starting points for students.