Social Sciences
Social Sciences Curriculum Overview
Our Social Sciences curriculum provides students with a deeper understanding of human behaviour, development, health and society. Through the study of Psychology, Health & Social Care and Child Development, students explore how individuals grow, learn, interact and respond to the world around them. The curriculum develops critical thinking, research, communication and analytical skills while encouraging students to understand diversity, wellbeing, equality and the factors that influence people's lives. Students gain both academic knowledge and practical skills that prepare them for further study and careers within healthcare, education, psychology, social work and related professions.
Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)
Students can choose from a range of Social Science subjects, each providing valuable insight into human development, behaviour and wellbeing.
| Psychology | Health & Social Care | Child Development |
|---|---|---|
| Memory and forgetting | Human growth and development | Pre-conception health and reproduction |
| Perception and visual processing | Life events and their impacts | Pregnancy and antenatal care |
| Social influence and conformity | Physical, intellectual, emotional and social development (PIES) | Childbirth and postnatal care |
| Research methods and psychological investigation | Principles of care and safeguarding | Child safety and safeguarding |
| Human development and learning | Person-centred values | Nutrition and healthy development |
| Psychological problems, depression and addiction | Effective communication in care settings | Developmental milestones from birth to five years |
| Language, thought and communication | Health promotion campaigns | Observation techniques |
| Brain function and neuropsychology | Equality, diversity and inclusion | Planning activities to support development |
| Research, analysis, evaluation and application of psychological theories | Practical research, communication and problem-solving skills | Practical coursework and real-world applications in childcare and early years settings |
Assessment
Assessment across Social Sciences includes:
Examination-style questions
Knowledge retrieval and recall activities
Research and investigation tasks
Coursework and controlled assessment projects
Practical applications and case studies
Presentations and evaluations
Mock examinations and external assessments
Enrichment and Careers
Social Sciences provide students with a strong foundation for understanding people, communities and society. Students develop transferable skills including communication, empathy, critical thinking, data analysis, research and problem-solving.
These subjects support progression into a wide range of careers including:
Psychology and counselling
Social work
Teaching and education
Nursing and healthcare professions
Midwifery
Early years and childcare
Occupational therapy
Youth work
Public health
Health and social care services
Through the study of Social Sciences, students become informed, reflective and compassionate individuals with a greater understanding of human behaviour, development and wellbeing in an ever-changing society.
Progression to Key Stage 5
The Social Sciences curriculum provides an excellent foundation for further study in the sixth form. Students develop strong analytical, evaluative, research and communication skills that support progression into a range of A Level and vocational qualifications.
At Key Stage 5, students may choose to continue their studies in subjects such as:
Psychology, exploring topics including memory, attachment, psychopathology, social influence, research methods and biopsychology.
Sociology, investigating social structures, inequality, crime, education, families and culture.
Health and Social Care, studying human lifespan development, healthcare provision, public health and professional practice.
Criminology, examining criminal behaviour, crime prevention, the justice system and social control.
Childcare and Early Years Education, focusing on child development, learning and educational practice.
Applied Science, particularly for students interested in healthcare and medical professions.
The knowledge and skills developed through Social Sciences support progression to higher education and careers in:
Psychology and counselling
Nursing and midwifery
Medicine and healthcare professions
Social work
Teaching and education
Occupational therapy
Speech and language therapy
Youth and community work
Criminology and criminal justice
Public health
Early years and childcare
Human resources and public services
By studying Social Sciences, students develop a deeper understanding of the complexities of human behaviour, relationships and society, preparing them to become informed, empathetic and reflective citizens while equipping them with the skills needed for success in further education, employment and lifelong learning.