Through studying psychology students learn about different explanations for human behaviour and the various methods used by psychologists to study behaviour and attitudes. They are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences in the light of psychological theory and to apply psychological knowledge to the world around them. Students learn how psychologists design investigations, collect and interpret data, and how psychological theory and research findings are applied in various contexts including the law, health, child care and education and social policy. Psychology teaches individuals to think independently and critically.
Key Stage 5: Years12 and 13 A level/A Level equivalent
Students will complete examinations in the second year to gain the A Level qualification. For this they would need to complete three separate papers;
Paper 1: Introductory topics in psychology (2hr)
- Social Influence
- Memory
- Attachment
- Psychopathology
Paper 2: Psychology in context (2hr)
- Approaches
- Biopsychology
- Research Methods
Paper 3: Issues and options in psychology (2hr)
- Issues and debates in psychology
- Gender
- Schizophrenia
- Forensic psychology
Students also have the option to sit the AS qualification at the end of the first year. This would involve two examinations at the end of year 12;
Paper 1: Introductory topics in psychology 1hr 30)
- Social Influence
- Memory
- Attachment
Paper 2: Psychology in context (1hr 30)
- Approaches including Biopsychology
- Psychopathology
- Research Methods
Extra-curricular Activities
Year 13 psychology students will attend the “Life Behind Bars” conference in Birmingham which links well to the Forensic psychology topic.