Psychology
Subject Philosophy/Purpose
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind which helps us to understand how the mind dictates and influences our behaviour, from communication and memory to thought and emotion. This study takes place through observation, measurement, and testing, in order to form conclusions that are based on scientific methodology. Psychology is a multifaceted discipline and includes many different fields of study such as human development, sports, health, clinical, social behaviour and cognitive processes. It is about understanding what makes people ‘tick’ and how this understanding can help us address many of the problems and issues in society today such as addiction, crime, stress, the impact of social media on relationships and mental health, to name a few.
As a science in the wider world psychology is a thriving academic discipline and a vital professional practice. It is a popular and exciting A level subject which challenges its students academically and on a personal level. Psychological knowledge and skills gained through studying the subject are vital in direct psychology-based careers: clinical psychologist, forensic psychologist, educational psychologist, health psychologist, sports psychologist but can also be transferred to wider career paths in health, education, the police force, human resources, therapy, social work and social researcher.
Curriculum Vision/Intentions
The curriculum encourages our students to become passionate about psychology and understand the wider social impact that it has. They are taught skills to analyses and evaluate studies and theories that attempt to explain human behaviour and understand the impact that this can have upon the individual and society. We hope that they leave the course with a secure knowledge about mental health issues, feeling confident to challenge discrimination and prejudice and play their part in making the world more just for all. Students are shown how psychology can complement their others subject choices at A level such as Biology, Art, Mathematics, Physical Education and the role it can play in their future careers.
Psychology students will:
- Have an effective introduction to Psychology
- Be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of psychological concepts, research studies, research methods and ethical issues in relation to topics studied
- Be able to evaluate therapies and treatments for mental health issues including their appropriateness and effectiveness
- Learn skills valued by Higher Education and employers such as critical analysis, independent thinking and research
We provide secure and purposeful environment for learning and discussion, with student/teacher relationships being a real strength within the department. From this we are able to inspire students to succeed, achieving their potential and pursue careers and academic study beyond Key Stage 5.
Curriculum Implementation
Psychology is offered at Key Stage 5, students following the A Level AQA Psychology specification.
Across Year 12 and Year 13 students are taught approaches and methods related to the core areas of Psychology such as cognitive, social, biological, developmental, individual differences and research methods. In addition, they are taught issues and debates and a range of topics options such as relationships, forensic and schizophrenia. They are regularly assessed to develop their understanding of the topics and the skills required for the external examinations that take place at the end of Year 13. Students sit three, two hour exams to determine their A level grade in the subject.
Further detailed information about the A level course content can be found at:
https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/psychology
The link below also provides the schemes of work for content taught in Year 12 and Year 13.
A Level Psychology
Extracurricular Activities
The department provides extra group and individual revision for students prior to assessments. We are excited to expand our links with local university providers to allow our students to be part of research and explore psychology from a more practical perspective.