Psychology

A Level Psychology is a popular subject in our Sixth Form, with a high number of Year 12 pupils choosing to study it every year. Our A Level Psychologists develop their independent research skills by attempting to answer questions such as what happens when a brain is split in half, and why are some people better able to resist temptation than others?

Taught by subject experts, pupils rely on critical thinking skills to learn about how behaviour is accounted for by different theories, based on an understanding of psychological research - enabling students to develop a greater understanding of their own and others' behaviour, and to appreciate diversity in society.

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Students follow the OCR A Level course, with Year 12 taught for nine lessons a fortnight and Year 13 for ten. Pupils can expect to complete at least one homework per week, alongside continuing consolidation and revision. Three, two-hour examinations take place at the end of Year 12: Component 1, Research Methods (30%); Component 2, Psychological Themes Through Core Studies (35%); and Component 3, Applied Psychology (35%).

Entry requirement

Grade 7 GCSE English Language and 6 in Mathematics.

Year 12

Research Methods: providing students with the opportunity to understand different research methods and techniques, creating an awareness of associated strengths and weaknesses.

Psychological Themes Through Core Studies: 10 pairs of studies (classic and contemporary) to cover a range of areas, including social, cognitive and biological psychology. Students learn about specific perspectives, such as behaviourism and the psychodynamic perspective. An appreciation of a range of issues and debates are incorporated throughout this component.

Year 13

Applied Psychology: covering a compulsory section on issues in mental health and two further applied areas; criminal and environmental psychology.

Useful Links

Expert speakers and conferences such as Behind Bars regularly visit the school, while students also attend external conferences and other relevant events.

Head of Psychology

Samantha Load [email protected]