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Introduction to A Level Psychology

A Level Psychology at Sandy Secondary School explores the science of human behaviour and the mind, opening doors to a remarkably diverse range of applications in both employment and further study. Examined by AQA, this course develops essay writing skills, statistical inference, and critical analytical thinking.

In Year 12, students study Social Influence, Memory, Attachment, Approaches in Psychology, Psychopathology, and Research Methods. Year 13 extends into Biopsychology, Further Research Methods, and Issues and Debates in Psychology, plus one optional topic chosen from Gender, Schizophrenia, or Forensic Psychology.

Psychology students require a range of academic skills to be successful, including essay writing and statistical inference. It is recommended that students undertake a maths qualification alongside their A Level Psychology course, such as A Level Maths or Core Maths, to support the quantitative elements of the subject.

Urvashi Makwana-Hau
Staff

Urvashi Makwana-Hau

Teacher of Psychology & Criminology

Assessment Structure

Paper 1: Introductory Topics
33%

Paper 1: Introductory Topics

2-hour written examination worth 96 marks. Four compulsory structured sections covering Social Influence, Memory, Attachment, and Psychopathology.

Paper 2: Psychology in Context
33%

Paper 2: Psychology in Context

2-hour written examination worth 96 marks. Three compulsory structured sections covering Approaches in Psychology, Biopsychology, and Research Methods.

Paper 3: Issues, Debates & Options
33%

Paper 3: Issues, Debates & Options

2-hour written examination worth 96 marks. One compulsory section on Issues and Debates, plus three optional sections (24 marks each) from Gender, Schizophrenia, or Forensic Psychology.

Careers and Progression

All areas of human behaviour have the potential to require psychological analysis or intervention, which means Psychology can lead to a diverse range of applications in both employment and further study. The subject develops analytical thinking, research skills, and a deep understanding of what drives human behaviour.

Most Psychology students from Sandy Secondary School go on to study a degree in Business and Management, Education, Law, Psychology, Science, Social Sciences, or Sports-related disciplines. The skills developed through A Level Psychology are valued across virtually every profession that involves understanding and working with people.

  • Psychology and Social Sciences
  • Business and Management
  • Education and Teaching
  • Law and Criminology
  • Science and Research
  • Sports-related Disciplines
  • Healthcare and Counselling

Studying Psychology has not only made me look at myself differently, it's also made me question the world I live in.

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Begin Your A Level Psychology Journey

Ready to understand what drives human behaviour? Our A Level Psychology programme at Sandy Secondary School explores the science of the mind, preparing you for diverse careers in business, education, law, healthcare, and beyond. Speak with Mrs U Makwana-Hau to discover your potential.

Contact the Psychology Department