Social Sciences

One of the most valuable things about studying humanities is that students gain essential knowledge and understanding about humans, our cultures, our stories, past and present, and the world we live in.

Studying within the Social Science Department helps students to develop the essential lifelong learning skills that ultimately employers seek such as critical thinking, communication skills, interpersonal and teamwork skills, and analytical and problem-solving skills.


Business will help students understand the way the commercial world operates, giving them a foundation for further study in the areas of accountancy and economics. It would also be useful for anyone interested in one day starting, and running, their own business.

In Geography students will study both the social and physical aspects that impact people here in New Zealand and on a global scale. Students will study patterns, geographical skills, development, sustainability, and natural processes using a range of case studies to support the theory they are learning.

History at Liston looks at the impact of various events during the 20th Century. Students will look at both national and global events and how they have shaped the world we live in today. By studying History students will gain skills in being able to analyse information, understand different perspectives, and to research effectively.