Psychology aims to develop a love of diverse and complex human behaviour. Learners are encouraged to think critically, challenge assumptions, striving for academic and personal growth. We foster a compassionate understanding of mental health, encouraging students to apply psychological knowledge to uplift others. Students develop confidence in their analytical and problem-solving skills, preparing them to engage with the world as informed and ethical individuals; confident to challenge received wisdom using empirical, evidence-based knowledge. Psychology equips students with the knowledge and skills to make a positive impact beyond the classroom.
Head of Department: Mrs Megan Winterburn
Students will develop a deep understanding of human behaviour through topics such as memory, attachment, social influence, and psychopathology. They explore key psychological approaches and examine debates like nature vs. nurture. Students also study biopsychology, research methods, and advanced topics such as schizophrenia, cognition and development, and forensic psychology. A strong emphasis is placed on reading academic texts, interpreting psychological studies, and evaluating evidence, which builds essential literacy and critical reading skills. Oracy is also a key focus, as students regularly engage in discussions, debates, and presentations to express their understanding clearly and confidently. Through these activities, they learn to articulate complex ideas, support arguments with evidence, and listen actively to others. The course not only prepares students for further study in psychology and related fields but also enhances communication, analysis, and reasoning skills essential for a wide range of academic and professional paths.
Aspirational targets are set for students in terms of expected grades but also in their day-to-day conduct and approach to learning the subject matter of psychology.
Through the examination of human behaviour, mental health via research and case studies students appreciate the positive contribution of psychology to society and develop understanding of the importance of non-judgemental and kind behaviour in their day-to-day lives. Developing an understanding of the factors that can affect behaviour and wellbeing enables students to motivate and have belief in themselves. The examination of individuals who have experienced deprivation and hardship and overcome demonstrates that challenges can be met and excellence achieved. Opportunities for youth leadership are provided when subject ambassadors are recruited, student volunteers sought for open evenings and opportunities for students to complete community service in the dept are promoted. Students plan and conduct their own research in psychology and regularly lead discussions and debate in class.
Psychology allows students to reflect on multi-perspectives and develop and appreciation that there is more than one way of seeing the world/explaining human behaviour. The amazing human brain is central to much of what is studied – the beauty and intricacy of its evolution and ‘design’. Questions about freewill and determinism are explored, including the implications of taking either stance. The exploration and investigation of a range of interesting and amazing research and research findings can provide moments of awe and wonder. Challenging concepts in terms of the ethics of research, particularly in the early history of psychology allows students to weigh the costs and benefits of knowledge vs socially sensitive research. The nature of psychology as a MC, white, male, western academic subject and the problems that generates in terms of generalising research findings to humans. The scientific nature of psychology dictates that generalisations are formed about human behaviour, but we also explore the uniqueness of each individual and explanations of how we are all so different. The impact of nature and nurture and the influence of love/attachment/human relationships are all themes that are explored within topics.
Assessment will take place at the end of 2 years. A level Psychology is assessed in 3 x 2hour examinations each covering different areas of the specification.
In class assessments will take place every half term. There will be mock examinations at the end of year 12 and in January of year 13.
A Level Psychology provides a strong foundation for a wide range of degree courses, including psychology, criminology, sociology, education, and health sciences. It supports careers in clinical, forensic, or educational psychology, as well as roles in mental health, social work, teaching, human resources, marketing, and research. The skills gained—critical thinking, communication, data analysis and understanding human behaviour are highly valued across many professions.
