Sociology A Level 3

For students applying from other schools please see the information below.

For existing students at OPGS - you will be applying internally and will receive separate instructions

Applications Open - 11th December 2025

Applications Close - 30th January 2026

Entry Requirements:-

Students achieving a minimum of at least six GCSEs (9 – 5) of which at least four are at a grade 6 (or equivalent).

In addition, students must meet subject entry requirements, which in most cases require a minimum of Grade 6 in the subject to be studied, or related subjects. Some subjects will require a grade 7 or higher. Please see school website (https://www.opgs.org) for entry requirements needed for individual A level subjects.

Students must also achieve a minimum of a grade 5 in English Language and Mathematics.

Typically, we would expect students following essay-based subjects to gain at least a grade 6 in English Language and students following scientific courses to gain at least a grade 7 in Mathematics.

The school shall determine which grades at 6 are required when A level subjects requested have not been taken at GCSE Level.

Priority will be given to existing pupils transferring from Year 11 who meet the entrance criteria

How to Apply

Students should select three or four A level subjects and include a 4th/5th as a reserve subjects. Please list your subjects in priority order and indicate which is your reserve choice.

Subject Choice

In choosing your subjects for A level you need to find out about the syllabus, examination requirements, coursework and the approach to study. Choose subjects that interest you and think carefully about the range and combination of subjects you would like to study. You may also wish to consider requirements for Higher Education or career paths.

Students should also note that the school cannot guarantee courses will run if there are not enough applicants. It is also possible that, in some subjects, numbers will have to be limited.

Sociology – Linear Course

Paper 1 - Introducing socialisation, culture and identity and Youth subcultures.

Paper 2 - Research methods and researching social inequalities Understanding social inequalities.

Paper 3 - Globalisation and the digital social world

Debates explored through a detailed study of Crime and deviance .

Enrichment Opportunities

Visits to Canterbury University

Visits to LSE

End of Unit Test

Autumn Assessment

End of Unit test

Year 12 Mock

End of Unit Test

Autumn Assessment

End of Unit Test

Year 13 Mock

Six 9-5 GCSE grades with at least four at grade 6

A minimum of a grade 5 in English Language and Mathematics

Grade 6 at GCSE in either GCSE History, GCSE Geography or GCSE RS

Typically, we would expect students following essay-based subjects to gain at least a grade 6 in English Language and students following scientific courses to gain at least a grade 7 in Mathematics.

You could take this course with other advanced level courses to prepare for higher education in one or more of the Social Sciences such as Sociology, Development Studies, Anthropology or more general higher education courses. With further training, you could go into a job related to Sociology and people such as a Social Worker, Teacher, Social Researcher or a more general position working within the Social Services. The course will also help you develop the skills, understanding and knowledge that many employers across lots of industries are looking for, especially in the health and social care sectors.