Courses
We offer a broad and balanced curriculum, for key stage 3 (Years 7-9), key stage 4 (Years 10 and 11) and key stage 5 (Years 12 and 13 - Sixth Form). Click the appropriate button below to find the details for each subject offered in each key stage.
Further details of our curriculum are available on the curriculum page.
Overview
Psychology
Introduction
Psychology is a very broad and fascinating subject, which involves the scientific study of the human brain and its functions, especially those affecting behaviour in a given context. There are many different types of psychologists from cognitive to behavioural. As well as being interesting and a good way of getting a science A Level to help you progress in a science career, it has many practical benefits for your own personal life. For example, it is really useful to learn how your memory works, how children make attachments and how to promote your own sense of wellbeing and mental health.
Psychology is a very useful subject and works particularly well with biology, sociology, English language, health and social care, PE and chemistry.
Qualification
A-level
Awarding body
AQA
Course leader
Mrs L Donohue
Assessment
- Examination: 100%
- 33.3%: paper 1, introductory topics in psychology, 2 hours.
- 33.3%: paper 2, psychology in context, 2 hours.
- 33.3%: paper 3, issues and options in psychology, 2 hours.
- Non-examined assessment: 0%
Curriculum
Course content
The AQA A-level psychology course offers a comprehensive exploration of human behaviour and mental processes through a variety of engaging topics and rigorous assessment objectives. Students will delve into key areas such as research methods, where they will learn about designing, conducting, analysing, and evaluating psychological research.
The approaches section covers foundational theories, including cognitive, biological, and psychodynamic perspectives. In attachment, students will examine the bonds formed between infants and caregivers and their impact on later development. Social influence explores how individuals are affected by others, including conformity, obedience, and group behaviour. The psychopathology unit addresses mental health disorders, their causes, and treatments. Additional topics include gender, where students investigate the development and impact of gender roles, and aggression, focusing on the biological and social causes of aggressive behaviour. The issues and debates section encourages critical thinking about ethical, cultural, and scientific considerations in psychology. This course equips students with a strong foundation in psychology, preparing them for further study and a range of careers in psychology and related fields.
Topics
- Social Influence
- Attachment
- Memory
- Psychopathology
- Approaches in psychology
- Biopsychology
- Research methods
- Issues and debates in psychology
- Gender
- Schizophrenia
- Aggression
Skills and requirements
Entry requirements
- Grade 5 in GCSE English language or English literature
- Grade 5 in GCSE mathematics
Beyond the classroom
We have a planned trip in Year 12 to Chester Zoo to support topics such as attachment and phobias as well as the use of animal studies in research. We have a Psychology Review e-library subscription giving students access to academic articles beyond the curriculum. We also host external speakers on careers and higher education courses.
Future pathways
Psychology is a suitable course for a wide range of careers which involve working with people, as well as for progression on to higher education.
Possible career options include forensic psychology, health psychology, research, neuropsychology, educational psychology, occupational psychology and as a pathway into teaching and social work.
