Social Science

Curriculum Intent

Social Science is a blend of Religious Studies, Citizenship and PSHE. We study the social sciences in order to nurture the natural human need to enquire and ask questions about our existence and the meaning of life. Within the subject we aim to enable students to apply historical, philosophical, theistic and political ideas to an ever-changing world. We seek to develop students as thoughtful global citizens who embrace debate on all belief systems, including British Values, without prejudice.

Key Stage 3:

• 3 x 60-minute lessons per fortnight.
• Classes are set according to ability.
• Work is completed in exercise books which are kept in school.
• Assessments are once per half term and the assessment is marked out of 20.
• Progress is monitored and tracked by the head of department and a senior leader.
• Homework is set as required; completion and submission is monitored on Class Charts.
• Awards are given every half term through nominations to the pastoral team. Students who are performing exceptionally are recognised through postcards home and positive telephone calls.

Key Stage 4:

• 5 x 60-minute lessons per fortnight.
• Classes are set according to ability.
• The examination specification for Citizenship is Edexcel (https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/citizenship-studies-2016.html) and the course is worth 1 GCSE and externally assessed by exam (100%).
• The examination specification for Religious Studies is AQA (https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/religious-studies/gcse/religious-studies-a-8062) and the course is worth 1 GCSE and externally assessed by exam (100%).
• The examination specification for Health and Social Care is BTEC (https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/btec-nationals/health-and-social-care-2016.html) and the course is worth 1 GCSE and externally assessed by exam and coursework.
• Work is completed in exercise books in school.
• Internal assessments are once per half term.
• Progress is monitored and tracked by the head of department and a senior leader.
• Homework is set as required; completion and submission is monitored on Class Charts.
• Awards are given every half term through nominations to the pastoral team. Students who are performing exceptionally are recognised through postcards home and positive telephone calls.

Extended Curriculum

Clubs

• Mock Trial competition – Mondays 2.45-3.15pm

Extra Support

• Students are supported through Microsoft Teams, where lessons and resources are posted for KS4 students and help may be sought.

Experiences

• Mock Trial – March/April – usually Burnley Magistrates’ Court.
• Parliament – day trip for KS4 students.
• Manchester Law firm – day trip for KS4 students.
• Guest speakers from Brabners LLP law firm present to year 10 in the spring/summer term.
• Range of other guest speakers as opportunities arise – Tony Lloyd MP, local councillors, etc.
• Digital Young Citizens – guest speakers from the legal profession.