5 Things We Learnt About... The hidden value of Sociology in schools
- Tom Rogers
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
In a recent show, co-hosts Jess Catnach and Tom Rogers explored the overlooked potential of sociology in schools. With guests Tom Genillard (OCR Subject Advisor for Sociology and Criminology) and Sunny Gunessee (Lead Practitioner and creator of Sound Sociology), the conversation delved into sociology's declining uptake, particularly among boys from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and how we can reframe the subject for modern learners. Here are five standout takeaways from the discussion.
1. Sociology Is in Decline, Especially Among Boys
Sociology has dropped from the fourth to the sixth most popular A-level subject since 2017. According to Genillard, "there's 25,000 less boys doing it than females," highlighting a sharp gender divide. This decline is part of a broader trend across social sciences and raises questions about the subject's visibility and appeal.
"When you think about psychology, there's actually 10,000 more male students choosing psychology over sociology."
2. The Subject Offers Vital Transferable Skills
Sunny Gunessee shared insights from his podcast project that traced former sociology students into diverse careers. Beyond public sector roles, alumni found success in areas like acquisitions, marketing, business consultancy, and social housing.
"What sociology does is allow you to get into the shoes of other people... that’s a transferable skill in any sector."
"It gave them the skills to understand systems, develop critical thinking, empathy and problem-solving."
3. Specialist Teachers Make a Huge Difference
One major issue is the lack of trained sociology specialists. Genillard noted that around 63% of sociology teachers have no formal training in the subject.
"I’ve often taught sociology alongside a part-timer... from a drama teacher to a PE teacher."
Schools with trained sociologists, like Sunny's, see stronger uptake and performance, especially among boys.
4. Better Collaboration with Universities Can Close Gaps
Both guests emphasised stronger links between schools and universities. Joint curriculum design, mentoring from PhD students, and research projects led by university lecturers were all suggested.
"If colleges and sixth forms aren’t developing research skills, students arrive at uni unequipped."
"Invite academics in. They want to do it. They just need to be asked."
5. Sociology Supports Whole-School Goals and Careers Guidance
Sociology naturally aligns with Ofsted criteria such as SMSC and British values, and supports Gatsby Benchmarks through real-world applications. Yet, outdated careers advice and misconceptions persist.
"There’s still this ‘ologies’ stereotype. What does it get you? What does it do?"
"Sociology is not PSHE. It explores those themes in far greater depth."
Sociology remains one of the most powerful subjects for helping students understand the world and their place in it. To reverse its decline, especially among underrepresented groups, the subject must be reframed—not as an academic 'extra' but as an essential toolkit for life and work in modern society. As Sunny put it:
"Most subjects are about the black and white. Sociology looks at the greys in between."
Listen back to the whole show on Teachers Talk Radio here and explore more at OCR Sociology and Sound Sociology.
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