An ambitious and inclusive Social Studies curriculum

Powerful knowledge

Pupils develop secure knowledge of economic systems, human behaviour and social structures. They learn the theories, concepts and specialist vocabulary needed to understand and evaluate complex issues.

Real-world application

Learning is connected to current and relevant questions about markets, government policy, inequality, education, families, crime, mental health, the media and social change.

Research and evidence

Pupils learn how economists, psychologists and sociologists collect and interpret evidence. They consider the strengths and limitations of different research methods and evaluate the reliability of conclusions.

Critical thinking

Pupils compare theories, question assumptions and examine the consequences of different decisions. They learn to construct balanced arguments supported by appropriate evidence.

Reading, discussion and academic writing

Pupils engage with challenging ideas and use specialist vocabulary accurately. Discussion and extended writing help them explain concepts, apply theories and reach well-supported judgements.

Assessment that supports improvement

Assessment is linked to clear curriculum end points. Teachers use questioning, discussion, data, research tasks and written responses to identify what pupils know, what they can apply and what they need to improve.

Ambitious and accessible for all

Complex theories, vocabulary and evidence are carefully explained, modelled and scaffolded. Teaching removes barriers while maintaining high expectations for every pupil.

The impact of the curriculum

Over time, pupils become increasingly knowledgeable, analytical and independent. They can interpret evidence, evaluate competing explanations and communicate informed conclusions about individuals, society and the economy.

What pupils will learn in Social Studies

Economics

Economics is offered at A-Level.

Pupils learn how individuals, businesses and governments make choices when resources are limited. They explore:

• How markets operate and why they sometimes fail.
• Supply, demand, prices and the allocation of resources.
• Government intervention through taxation, subsidies, regulation and public spending.
• Inflation, unemployment, economic growth and government policy.
• Business behaviour, competition and labour markets.
• Globalisation, international trade and exchange rates.
• Poverty, inequality and economic development.
• The financial sector and the role of the state.

Pupils apply economic theory to real-world situations using data, calculations, diagrams and critical reasoning. They learn to question assumptions, recognise trade-offs and evaluate the likely effects of economic decisions.

Psychology

Psychology is offered at A-Level.

Pupils examine how biological, psychological and social factors influence human thought and behaviour. They explore:

• Different psychological approaches and theories.
• Memory and the reliability of eyewitness testimony.
• Research methods and the scientific study of behaviour.
• The brain, nervous system and biological influences on behaviour.
• Attachment and the importance of early relationships.
• Mental health and approaches to treatment.
• Social influence, including conformity and obedience.
• Explanations of criminal behaviour.
• Significant debates about free will, determinism, nature and nurture.

Pupils design research, interpret evidence and evaluate psychological theories and studies. They also consider ethical issues, bias and the wider influence of psychology on treatments, interventions and public policy.

Sociology

Sociology is offered at A-Level.

Pupils investigate how society is organised and how institutions, identities and inequalities shape people’s lives. They explore:

• Education and the experiences of different social groups.
• Families, households and changing relationships.
• Crime, deviance, justice and social control.
• The role and influence of the media.
• Social class, gender, ethnicity and inequality.
• Sociological theories, including Functionalism, Marxism and Feminism.
• Research methods used to investigate society.
• The relationship between evidence, theory and social policy.

Pupils compare different sociological explanations, analyse research and construct balanced arguments about complex social issues. They develop the ability to challenge stereotypes and discuss contrasting viewpoints thoughtfully and respectfully.