Our curriculum allows our students to become knowledgeable about the human condition; appreciating the biological, cultural and cognitive processes which shape, guide and determine our behaviours and identity in order to contribute to a more peaceful and understanding world.
Students’ knowledge of the varying approaches to Psychological investigation equips them with the expertise required for university study in the subject. In year 12 the foundations of research are explored by students allowing them later to participate in the internal assessment project which replicates the real world experience of conducting Psychological investigations. In Year 13, students make use of this research knowledge by applying this understanding to a range of contemporary research in fields such as psychological disorders and cognitive science. Underpinning all aspects of the two year course are the foundational approaches to Psychology so that students can analyse each field and its supporting research through the lens of cognitive, biological and sociocultural approaches.
Students studying Higher Level Psychology will be well placed to pursue a career pathway in:
Many more career options and information about them can be found here: https://www.bps.org.uk/career-options-psychology
Internal Assessment
External Assessment
Weighting: 20% of final grade
Outline: A 2000 word research project based on a replication of an existing Psychological investigation
Weighting: Paper 1 = 40%, Paper 2 = 20%, Paper 3 = 20%
Outline: Students are assessed in April of Year 13 across 3 exams. Assessments are predominantly essay based.
Module 1
Research Methods: Qualitative & quantitative data
The Biological Approach: The brain, genetics, hormones & pheromones
Module 2
Research Methods: Qualitative & quantitative data
The Biological Approach: The brain, genetics, hormones & pheromones
Module 3
The Sociocultural Approach: Identity & culture
Module 4
The Cognitive approach: Memory, thinking & biases
Module 5
Internal Assessment
Module 6
Internal Assessment
Module 1
Relationships: Personal relationships & Group dynamics
Module 2
Relationships: Personal relationships & Group dynamics
Module 3
Developmental Psychology: Cognitive, biological and social influences
Module 4
Developmental Psychology: Cognitive, biological and social influences
Module 5
Exam preparation
