What is the purpose of this qualification?
This qualification is for learners with no prior learning in this area who want an introduction to some key areas of social science. It will be of relevance to learners preparing for further study in one of a number of related areas at level 3. It can be used as the substantial qualification by learners on a 16-19 study programme.
What skills, knowledge, or understanding does this qualification develop?
This qualification includes the following mandatory units
• Law in action: tort
• Democracy, power and participation in the UK
• The sociology of education
• The sociology of the family
• Law in action: criminal law
• Community action and active citizenship
• Global citizenship
• Equal opportunities, prejudice and discrimination
• Carrying out an extended project
Learners can then add further units from a range covering personal, learning and thinking skills, such as those for effective team workers and creative thinkers.
How is this qualification different from other, similar qualifications?
There is a Gateway Qualifications Level 2 Award, Certificate and Diploma in Social Sciences. Learners should take the Diploma if they want a programme that gives them a comprehensive grounding across different aspects of social science, as well as the opportunity to develop valuable learning skills in readiness for progressing to a Level 3 social science course (e.g. an Access to Higher Education: Humanities and Social Sciences or an A level or AS in Sociology).
Which sector does this qualification support?
This qualification is not designed to support progression to employment.
What are the progression options?
This qualification supports progression to Level 3 learning in the field of social sciences, including for example sociology or law.
Progression & Entry Requirements
There is no requirement for any specific prior learning or attainment for this qualification. It is anticipated that most learners will not have any prior experience of social science before embarking on this qualification. However they will benefit from having English and Maths skills at level 2 or above.The qualification is available to learners aged 16 and over.
