Social Sciences (inc RSE, CPSHE)

Social Sciences incorporates - CPSHE, Sociology, Psychology, Health & Social Care and Criminology 

Sex and Relationships Education is delivered through the Citizenship Personal, Social and Health and Education (CPSHE) programme as well as within the core content of National Curriculum subjects such as science.  The varied aspects of Sex and Relationships Education are delivered within a spiral curriculum, building on students’ experiences and knowledge as they progress through the 7 years of their learning.  An individual breakdown of the Sex and Relationships Education Programme can be provided in more detail on request. 

Sex and Relationships Education provides an opportunity to look at the issues, information and implications of sexuality and personal relationships in a structured, sympathetic and sensitive manner.  It is taught in a way that engenders discussion and the asking of questions.  Materials and approaches reflect an anti-racist perspective and it is taught within the context of promoting equality and celebrating diversity.

CPSHE is an inspiring course in topical issues giving student’s the confidence and conviction to participate in decision making and become active, effective citizens in public life. CPSHE provides an interdisciplinary and holistic approach for the personal development of each student. Students access relevant, age appropriate information that is essential for their health and well being. They explore their own values and others’ in a supportive atmosphere reflecting on issues that affect their own lives and consider others opinions. Students develop understanding of their physical, mental and emotional needs and those of others and are empowered to develop healthy lifestyles and keep themselves and others safe. They develop understanding of themselves, groups and the wider society and explore diverse and culturally different perspectives. CPSHE enables students to recognise their personal qualities and to value and understand the development of their character, developing confidence, self esteem and self respect and to respect others.

Citizenship education is a statutory part of the national curriculum at Key Stages 3 and 4. Knowledge in citizenship is acquired through enquiry and communication and active participation in citizenship activities, preparing students to take an active part in the lives of their communities. Citizenship education includes social and moral responsibility, community involvement and political literacy. The aim is to develop student’s critical reasoning skills, to give them confidence to take part in school, community and public life and in finding new forms of involvement and action among themselves.

Sociology and Psychology 

Sociology and Psychology is taught in an engaging and innovative way with student centred teaching strategies that encourage independent learning and improve study and revision skills. The courses are practical ones that encourages students to think like social scientists and to plan and carry out research in a  way that will prepare them for Higher education. A large number of students go on to do social studies at college and then university and this prepares them for careers in many fields such as social work, business, education, and many others.

Students develop evaluative and analytical skills, and an ability to make evidence based judgements rather than basing opinions on prejudice or “common sense”. Students also build up confidence and assertiveness in discussing current issues and relating these to sociological theories and perspectives. They will also develop essential exam and essay writing techniques, and revision and study skills.

Health and Social Care (H&SC) can be taken as a preference option at Key Stage 4 and combines elements of sociology, biology, nutrition, law and social policy and ethics. During this course, students will undertake a work placement relating to a health, social care or early years organisation to enrich their knowledge, skills and apply theory to practice.

The department is committed to:

•  actively engaging students in the processes of health and social care to develop as effective and independent learners;

• giving students the opportunity to understand aspects of personal development, and the health, social care and early years sectors through investigation and evaluation of a range of services and organisations;

• developing students critical and analytical approach to problem-solving within the health, social care and early years sectors;

• students examining issues that affect the nature and quality of human life including an appreciation of diversity and cultural issues.

• develop students  awareness of the influences on an individual's health and wellbeing;

• students understanding  the importance of motivation and support when improving health.

Social Sciences is taught at Hornsey in a positive, supportive, and rewarding environment that strives to achieve successful outcomes for all ability ranges.

Resources & Facilities

Social sciences resources are based across the school and within the 6th form.  This includes books, networked computer suite, video library as well as a range of health promotion leaflets students can take away. On the computer network there is a range of social sciences interactive educational software packages that students can access in lessons or independently.