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Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processing. It helps you pose questions and gain a deeper meaning and understanding of people’s interactions and motivations. 

The course begins with an introduction into Psychology and understanding the different approaches and methods used to study human behaviour. A selection of topics is then studied from key areas in Psychology such as Biological Psychology, Phobias, OCD, Depression, Treatments, Conformity, Memory, Eye Witness Testimony and Attachment. 

Psychology allows you to explore key explanations of human behaviour such as the influence of the nervous system, early experiences, social influences and the environment. 

In Year 13, more applied areas are studied, such as Relationships, Schizophrenia and Forensic Psychology. Students will also learn about key debates and issues.

We follow the AQA Specification. The course will be assessed by three written examinations taken at the end of the second year of the course. There is no coursework in this subject. 

Entry Criteria

6 in a GCSE Science and 5 in GCSE English Language.

Companion Subjects

Business

Sociology

Biology

Chemistry

Mathematics

Religious Studies

Physical Education

Law

Career Paths

  • Clinical Psychology

  • Forensic Psychology

  • Sports Psychology

  • Law Enforcement

  • Marketing Executive

  • Counselling

  • Social Work

Subject Intent

Psychology helps students understand how people think, feel and behave. From memory and mental health to relationships and conformity, the course gives insight into the human mind and behaviour. Through scientific enquiry and critical thinking, students develop strong analytical, writing and research skills—perfect for many academic and career pathways.

Course Overview

The course covers three main areas:

Year 1 Topics (AS-level content):

  • Social Influence – obedience, conformity, resistance to social pressure.

  • Memory – models of memory, forgetting, eyewitness testimony.

  • Attachment – early relationships and their impact on development.

  • Psychopathology – definitions of abnormality, phobias, depression, OCD.

  • Approaches in Psychology – behavioural, cognitive, biological, psychodynamic and humanistic perspectives.

  • Research Methods – designing studies, analysing data, ethical considerations.

Year 2 Topics:

  • Biopsychology – nervous system, localisation of function, biological rhythms.

  • Issues and Debates – gender/cultural bias, determinism vs free will, nature vs nurture.

  • Optional Topics (typically three from):

    • Schizophrenia

    • Gender

    • Forensic Psychology
      (The school selects three optional units based on interest and expertise.)

Assessment Overview

Paper 1 – Introductory topics (social influence, memory, attachment, psychopathology) – 2 hours – 96 marks – 33.3%
Paper 2 – Psychology in context (approaches, biopsychology, research methods) – 2 hours – 96 marks – 33.3%
Paper 3 – Issues and options in psychology (issues & debates + 3 optional topics) – 2 hours – 96 marks – 33.3%
All papers include multiple-choice, short answer, and extended writing questions.

Homework & Independent Study

  • Regular exam practice questions with peer/self-assessment.

  • Flashcards and retrieval tasks for key terms and case studies.

  • Practice designing and critiquing psychological research.

  • Wider reading on contemporary issues and classic studies.

Enrichment Opportunities

  • Experimental design challenges and practical mini-labs.

  • Revision clinics and essay-writing masterclasses.

Where Can Psychology Take You?

Psychology supports a wide range of university degrees and careers, such as:

  • Psychology, Criminology, Education, Social Work, Counselling, Law, Nursing, Marketing, Neuroscience, and more.
    It builds critical thinking, scientific literacy, communication, and empathy—skills needed in every sector.

Curriculum Content

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