Sociology is central to many of the social and political debates that surround us - it helps you to identify the facts underneath all the hot air coming from politicians and media commentators.

Data gathered and analysed by Sociologists are used in many areas - from government departments' responses to immigration to supermarkets deciding what to stock to match the profile of their customers.

It is a very broad subject in which we will discuss a range of issues including:  the causes of the rise in single parent families; the reason why girls now do better than boys in exams; why there has been increasing concerns about "anti-social behaviour"; the causes of the growth of slums in Third World cities and the impact of climate change on Africa.

It overlaps with many of the other subjects you might study at A-level or University both in what we study and the skills we teach - making what you learn useful to you across the curriculum.

Our aim is to equip you with the skills that will help you to become an independent learner, this does not mean that you are on your own however, we will offer you all the support that you need.

The Sociological Imagination: 

• - Common sense and everyday explanations of social life are often a cover-up for ignorance and a lack of understanding of how our society and culture work.
• - Sociology helps you to challenge these views and to think for yourself.
• - To look at the world using your sociological imagination.
• In AS/A2 Sociology you will:

- Develop awareness and understanding of the patterns of behaviour in our society.
- Consider contemporary debates and problems about the nature of social life.
- Learn about various different types of research methods and how to present results and theories.
- Explore current social issues, as well as earlier studies & theories.
- Explore different areas of society that directly affect you - from the nature of education to the impact of globalisation.

This course will appeal to students who:

• - Enjoy looking at the world around them in order to understand why people act as they do.
• - Wish to understand the social factors that influence people's lives.
• - Interested in a course that will support them in a professional career in research, law, education, caring or human management and relationships.
• - Are looking for a subject that will complement other GCE and GNVQ subject areas - such as Media, Government and Politics, English, History and Psychology.
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What can I do with Sociology?

Sociology qualifications at this level are almost universally accepted as entry qualifications by employers, training providers and universities. Candidates who achieve Advanced Subsidiary GCE or Advanced GCE qualifications may progress to:

• - Undergraduate study in a wide range of social science, humanities or vocational subjects.
• - Vocational training in a wide range of occupations, including social work and social care, journalism in all its forms, business administration and management etc.

- Employment in a similar range of occupations.

Marc Gerard Cronin
Head of Sociology