Psychology

The Psychology department supports students to develop an appreciation of how psychological principles can be applied to situations in everyday life.

It engenders an awareness of the complexity of human behaviour and relationships and allows students to reflect on their own experiences. As psychology is a scientific subject, it enhances skills of analysis, evaluation and critical appraisal as well as literacy and communication skills.

A Level Psychology

Our A Level course includes an introduction to the main schools of thought in Psychology and the research methods involved, as well as many topics of applied Psychology.

Unit 1 topics include: 

• Memory
• Attachment
• Social Influence 
• Psychopathology

Unit 2 topics include: 

• Key approaches
• Biopsychology 
• Research methods

Unit 3 topics include: 

• Addiction
• Gender
• Schizophrenia

All three units are examined separately by means of a 2-hour examination at the end of the two year course.

Some group work is carried out, but students are also given the opportunity to extend their independent learning skills. Some lessons involve practical tasks, videos, discussion and ICT activities and students are encouraged to take an active part in class activities.

A grade 6 or above in English Language is required for this A Level option.

How will Psychology be useful in my career?

Students considering a career as a psychologist will need to complete a psychology degree accredited by the BPS (British Psychological Society), eventually specialising in a particular area such as educational psychology or clinical psychology. This may involve a further two or three years of study. Psychology A Level is also incredibly useful in many careers such as social work, medicine, law, advertising, teaching, criminology and police work.

Co-curricular Activities

Recent co-curricular activities include: 

• Presentation at the Year 12 research conference
• Visit to the Freud Museum in London
• Science Week lectures 
• Participation in Brain Awareness Week activities with Year 5 and 6 pupils 
• Psychology Club for Year 10
• Visiting speakers 
• Our subject Prefects are able to participate in a range of activities and events to share their learning with a wider audience and inspire our younger learners 

A Psychology clinic is available every week.