Social Science Curriculum Intent Statement

LOVE

Social Science seeks to understand both individual and societal human behaviour. We work to develop lifelong skills and understanding for students to appreciate different perspectives from around the world and think holistically regarding the reasons why we, and others in society behave the way we do. We feel it is important for students to practice seeing the world through the eyes of others, exploring new concepts and ideas, to ignite their curiosity and both broaden and deepen their knowledge and understanding.

LIVE

Social Science intrinsically requires students to reflect on who they are in the context in which they live. We wrestle with sensitive issues and ask students to have self-awareness in an unequal society. It is at this stage in their lives when their thinking is not calcified that they are well placed to understand injustice. Asking students what they can do to help others and work to improve themselves and society at large are big questions we help students navigate.

LEARN

A high standard of communication and scholarly behaviour is encouraged and is fundamental to the achievement of students – reading of external sources and understanding research is a key area of study that we encourage. Students are invited to attend additional intervention sessions to ensure they receive the support to enable them to develop key skills that can be used across the curriculum. The Social Sciences curriculum encourages lifelong learning and instills a culture and world perspective that will stay with students.

LEAD

Students are trained to challenge misconceptions, to act as role models for each other and actively seek opportunities to demonstrate leadership skills that are intrinsically provided by the nature of the Social Sciences curriculum. Our students are encouraged to be resilient and tackle sensitive topics with empathy and clarity. Debate is conducted on a range of contemporary issues such as poverty, knife crime, family values and mental health and students apply perspectives to their arguments.