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Psychology

Psychology

Our vision is to cultivate resilient, tolerant, and respectful young people who possess emotional intelligence and compassion. We aim to empower our pupils to understand themselves and the world around them, equipping them with the skills needed for future work and study. By fostering independence and ensuring every student has a voice, we aspire to create an environment where all pupils feel valued and capable.

Our staff are committed to actively reflecting on and improving their practices for the benefit of our pupils. We aim to place a strong emphasis on frequently and effectively considering student voice in our decisions. We maintain high aspirations and expectations for all pupils, guiding them to achieve their fullest potential in both their personal and academic lives.

 

Staffing

Head of Social Sciences: Ms S Jafar

Mr R Soteriou (2nd in Social Sciences), Miss S Kousar (Social Sciences Coordinator)Ms S Ifzaal (Teacher of Social Sciences)

Key Stage 4

At Key Stage 4, we offer AQA GCSE Psychology. Psychology is a popular subject which is attractive to pupils because it develops a range of valuable skills, including critical analysis, independent thinking and research. These skills are particularly relevant to young people and are transferable to further study and the workplace.

This qualification:

  • Provides a sound understanding of methods and approaches in Psychology at an introductory level
  • Illustrates these methods and approaches through various topic areas representing the core areas of social, cognitive, developmental, biological and individual differences
  • Develops investigation and report writing skills
  • Develops analytical and critical thinking skills
  • Encourages an appreciation of how science works
  • Provides a strong basis for progression to our A-level Psychology specifications

This qualification will allow pupils to achieve level 9-1.

Each paper will be worth 50% of the overall grade. (100% exam)

Pupils will complete two written exams (1hour 45mins) at the end of Year 11.

 

Cognition & Behaviour

Key stage 5

AQA Psychology – A-Level

The AQA A-level qualification offers an engaging and effective introduction to Psychology. Pupils will learn the fundamentals of the subject and develop skills valued by Higher Education (HE) and employers, including critical analysis, independent thinking and research. The emphasis is on applying knowledge and understanding, thereby developing pupils’ transferable skills of analysis, evaluation and critical thinking.

The AQA A Level Psychology is a two-year course and pupils will undertake three written examinations at the end of Year 13.

Each paper will be worth 33.33% of the overall grade (100% exam) and each paper is 2 hours in length.

This qualification will allow pupils to achieve a grade A*- E.

 

Paper 1: Introductory topics in psychology

Paper 2: Psychology in context

Paper 3: Issues and options in psychology

Homework

Each lesson, pupils will receive homework that is designed to extend and consolidate their knowledge in relation to the unit that they are studying at the time. This will vary and will include researching studies relevant to the course, applying their knowledge to real life situations and practising revision skills in order to prepare for the main assessments. 

In addition to homework, pupils should also review and revisit previous content as part of their revision, throughout the year.

 

Resources that will help pupils extend their knowledge – Additional reading, websites, activities

Extra-curricular

Recent external visits have included Twycross Zoo and Birmingham City University.

Psychology pupils are encouraged to attend ‘Debate Club’, which is partly ran by Psychology staff.

 

Careers

The wide skill set gained from studying psychology can lead to success in many different careers.

Careers directly linked to psychology: Clinical psychologist, counselling psychologist, educational psychologist, health psychologist, occupational psychologist, sport and exercise psychologist.