Psychology is the scientific study of how people behave, and how their minds work. It is a multi-disciplinary approach with five core approaches; cognitive, biological, social, behavioural and psychodynamic.
Throughout the course we focus on the theories these approaches provide on topics such as addiction, schizophrenia and relationships and assess which provides the most credible explanation based on research support.
In psychology students will learn to think critically and will probably never accept a ‘fact’ at face value again. You will respond quite differently to news stories for example. Psychology is a popular choice for students, not only because it is a fascinating subject to study but because of the transferrable skills the course helps students develop, which include, conducting research, analysing information, and report writing.
We follow the AQA A specification which includes the following topics:
- Paper 1: Social influence, Memory, Attachments and Psychopathology.
- Paper 2: Approaches, Biopsychology and Research methods.
- Paper 3: Issues and debates, Relationships, Schizophrenia and Addiction.
30% of the exam assesses research methods.
10% of the exam assesses mathematical skills.
The transferable skills developed through the psychology syllabus will make you very attractive to future employees. Activities in lesson encourage students to think critically, creatively and practically.
This enables you to:
- Assess the strengths and weaknesses of theories.
- Apply psychological ideas to explain real life phenomena.
- Design studies and create own explanations for psychological phenomena.
- Develop research skills and encourage independent thinking.
Accommodation and Resources
Psychology is based in the Sixth Form centre. Students have 6 x 50 minute lessons a week in classrooms with interactive whiteboards. Our ethos is to promote independent learners where the teacher facilitates rather than lectures. This involves setting up a safe learning environment where students are confident enough to conduct research, challenge theories and create practical solutions to problems within society.
Drop in sessions are available for psychology on a Friday lunchtime where you can access additional support with your psychological studies.