Free A Level Sociology in Bristol. Classes run at The Olympus Academy Trust Abbeywood Community School. Sociology examines how society works, from family structures and education to crime, deviance, and global events. You'll explore the big questions about social life and how policies shape the world around us. The course runs full-time over two years, covering topics including family, education, and crime and deviance. Entry requires a grade 5 in English, plus a grade 5 in Sociology or a humanities subject if you've studied one.
Who this course is for
Sociology is the study of one of the most fascinating topics on earth human life and social groups from the man on the street to global events. This subject asks the big questions about social life to enable us to understand the world around us and to understand how policies are formed that can help improve our lives. For example, we look at what is the best way to investigate football hooliganism and is there an ideal type of family. Specific topics include family, education, crime and deviance, and beliefs. As well as these areas of knowledge you will also develop essential research skills including data analysis. Sociology equips students with many general skills which are sought by universities and employers alike such as critical analysis and the clear expression of ideas. It is well suited to people centred employment such as journalism, teaching, legal professions and marketing.
Entry requirements
5 in English; plus 5 in Sociology if taken or a humanities subject
What you will learn
You'll study how families are structured and how they've changed over time.
You'll analyse how education systems shape life chances and social inequality.
You'll examine theories of crime and deviance, and how society responds to them.
You'll evaluate different research methods used to investigate social issues.
You'll explore how social policies are formed and their impact on communities.
You'll develop skills in constructing and critiquing sociological arguments.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons, discussion, and analysis of sociological texts and case studies. Assessment is by written examinations at the end of the two-year course. AQA sets the exams, which test your ability to apply sociological theories, evaluate evidence, and construct extended arguments. There is no coursework component.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Olympus Academy Trust Abbeywood Community School will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Social researcher: collects and analyses data on social issues
Community support worker: helps individuals navigate social services
Youth worker: supports young people in community or educational settings
Policy officer: works in local government or charities on social policy
Journalist: reports on social affairs, politics, or community issues
HR assistant: supports people and workplace culture in organisations
Probation services officer: works with offenders in the justice system
What you could study next
Sociology degree (BA): the natural next step after this level 3 a level sociology qualification, deepening theory and research skills.
Criminology degree (BA): builds directly on crime and deviance topics covered in the course.
Social Policy degree (BA): focuses on how governments design and implement social change.
Psychology A Level or Access to Higher Education Diploma: alternative routes if you want to broaden your options before university.
