Sociology Department

Sociology is part of the Social Sciences faculty, working alongside Psychology, Law and Critical Thinking. Sociology provides a challenging alternative to some of the more traditional courses, and provides the knowledge and skills to critically engage with key issues facing contemporary societies including globalization; criminality; the changing nature of education and the family; gender roles and sexuality; and the impact of the media.
In addition to  Sociological theories we place a strong emphasis on developing social science research skills – so valued by employers and universities.

Aims

The skills developed through the study of Sociology  are of general application and will prove useful in a range of other subjects and future careers.  The Sociology  syllabus aims to:

• Encourage students to become critical thinkers, assessing and evaluating the material presented.
• Provide students with the opportunity to explore the social changes reshaping the world today.
• Provide students with an awareness of social structure and social action which emphasises different interpretations of social experiences.
• Develop a lifelong interest in social issues.

Accommodation and resources

Sociology is based in the sixth form centre.  Students have lessons in classrooms with interactive whiteboards which encourage a variety of teaching methods including PowerPoint presentations, use of internet resources and illustration through contemporary news stories and debates.

Key Stage 5

At Windsor we offer the AQA Sociology syllabus, students have 6 x50 minute lessons a week.

Extra-curricular activities

The Sociology department offer after school sessions for revision and extra guidance.  In addition there is a social science debating club that runs with Psychology.  Opportunities are constantly being sought to engage students further  in the curriculum.  We recently invited Sandra Gregory who discussed her experiences of spending time in Bangkok and UK prisons with AS Sociology students.