Sixth Form: Psychology

Subject Overview

Psychology is the study of thought processes, the brain and behaviour. Our individual psychology impacts how we think about ourselves and others, how we view our place in the world, and gives us our unique perception of ‘reality’. This perception of reality fundamentally impacts how we behave in all aspects of our lives.

Psychology explains our relationships with our parents, siblings, friends, and will play a significant role in every other area of our lives from career success to favourite foods. A level Psychology does not teach us to read minds, understand body language or be able to predict the future, but it does get you thinking about why people act like they do. Why do people obey, conform or feel anxious? Why do people sleep? How does our brain work? What is ‘mental health’?

Entry Requirements

  • Grade 5 or higher in English Language or Literature

Syllabuses (Course Outline and Structure)

We follow the AQA specification which can be found here:

In the first year you will study Memory, Attachment, Social Influence, Research methods, Approaches and Psychopathology. In the second year you will study Biopsychology, Schizophrenia, Relationships, Issues and Debates and Forensic psychology

The course is 100% examination and this will be externally assessed through three papers, all taken at the end of your second year.

The qualification offers an engaging and effective introduction to Psychology. Students will learn the fundamentals of the subject and develop skills valued by Higher Education (HE) and employers, including critical analysis, independent thinking and research.

Activities and trips

Past trips have included a trip to Twycross zoo to study animal behaviour, an over night ghost hunt in a haunted school and a trip to see Derren Brown in London.

Expected Costs

You will need to buy your own textbook for this course, AQA Psychology for A-level Year 1 and AS by Cara Flanagan, Dave Berry, Matt Jarvis, Rob Liddle and AQA Psychology Year 2 by the same authors. The cost of the recommended textbooks is £23.75 for the Year 1 book and £27.50 for Year 2 book.

Complementary Subject Combinations and Enrichment Activities

Psychology is a Social Science and links well with other Social Sciences such as Law, Sociology and Health and Social Care. Other popular combinations include Biology, Chemistry, English Language/Literature and Media Studies.