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Psychology: A-level

Qualification: A-level

Exam Board: AQA

Entry Requirements: Grade 5 or above in either GCSE English Language or GCSE English Literature and a Grade 5 in GCSE Maths.

 

Watch our video about psychology a-level

 

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A fascinating exploration of our brains and behaviour

Psychology is a well established subject at Silverdale and forms part of the social sciences department, alongside sociology. Our expert staff are very experienced and passionate about htier subject and are members of the network group for psychology teachers in South Yorkshire, helping us to provide first-class teaching for all of our students. This is demonstrated by our strong track record of achievement.

 

The course

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 and how children make attachments, and how to promote your own sense of wellbeing and mental health.

The broad topics covered are:

  • Social Influence, memory, attachment and abnormal psychology
  • Approaches in psychology, biopsychology and research methods
  • Gender, aggression, schizophrenia and issues and debates

Equipment required

No equipment is required other than the usual folder, paper, dividers and a pen.

If you want to buy a revision guide, then we recommend 'AQA Psychology for A-level Year 1' and 'AS Revision Guide – 2nd Edition' (Cara Flanagan, Michael Griffin, Matt Jarvis, Rob Liddle). However, there is no requirement for this as we have an online subscription for students to access the textbook at home and you will be provided with printed booklets for each topic.

Beyond the classroom

There is a planned trip in Year 12 to Chester Zoo to support topics such as attachment and social learning theory as well as the use of animal studies in research. The department also has an active Social Science Club run by staff in the department, which explores contemporary issues in social sciences beyond the classroom. Past topics have included freedom of speech on campus, masculinity and femininity, and the dark side of TikTok. Students who take part are encouraged to bring their own topics for discussion which sometimes centre around interesting documentaries, podcasts or articles.

 

Progression

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 courses in social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. Possible career options include forensic psychology, health psychology, research, neuropsychology, educational psychology, occupational psychology, counselling, criminology and as a pathway into teaching and social work.