Free A Level Sociology in Bristol. Classes run at Winterbourne International Academy Bristol. Sociology explores how society works, from family structures and education to crime and deviance. You'll study big questions about social life and how policies shape the world around us. The course runs full-time over two years. Entry requires a grade 5 in English, plus a grade 5 in Sociology or a humanities subject if you've studied either. A level 3 a level sociology qualification with real weight for university applications and graduate-entry careers.
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 explore how families are structured and how they're changing in modern society.
You'll analyse how education systems shape opportunity and inequality.
You'll examine crime and deviance, including how and why crime is measured and explained.
You'll evaluate different research methods, including how to investigate social issues like football hooliganism.
You'll develop skills in constructing arguments and weighing sociological evidence.
You'll consider how social policies are formed and what effects they have on communities.
How you will learn
You'll study through classroom-based lessons at Winterbourne International Academy Bristol, covering core topics in family, education, and crime. Assessment is by written examinations at the end of the two-year course, set and marked by AQA. There is no coursework component for this qualification. You'll develop essay-writing and analytical skills throughout the course in preparation for the final exams.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Winterbourne International Academy Bristol will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Social worker: supports individuals and families through statutory services
Police officer: uses sociological understanding of crime and communities
Probation officer: works with offenders on rehabilitation and risk
Youth worker: supports young people in community or educational settings
HR advisor: applies knowledge of social behaviour in workplace contexts
Journalist: investigates and reports on social issues and policy
Community development worker: designs programmes to improve local outcomes
What you could study next
Sociology degree (BA): the natural next step after an a level sociology qualification, deepening theory and research skills
Criminology degree (BA): builds directly on the crime and deviance topics covered at A Level
Social Policy degree (BA): focuses on how governments respond to social problems
Psychology A Level or degree: pairs well with sociology for careers in health, education, or research
PGCE (teaching): routes into secondary teaching for those who go on to degree level
