Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. It helps students understand why people think, feel, and act the way they do, covering a wide range of topics from brain function to social interaction.
By studying Psychology, students develop a deeper understanding of human behaviour, gain critical thinking skills, and learn how to apply psychological principles to real-world issues.
Following the AQA Psychology specification, students explore key areas of human behaviour, including cognition and behaviour (memory, perception, development, and research methods) and social context and behaviour (social influence, language, thought and communication, brain and neuropsychology, and psychological problems).
Students also develop essential research skills, learning how psychologists design studies, collect and analyse data, and interpret findings.
Through these topics, students gain a deeper understanding of psychological concepts and how scientific research informs our knowledge of human thought, emotion, and behaviour.
For more detailed information on the specification please follow the link: AQA Psychology GCSE.
Students complete four compulsory Units in Year 10 for Paper 1 Exam:
Memory
Development
Perception
Research methods
Students complete four compulsory units in Year 11 for Paper 2 Exam:
Social Influence
Psychological problems
Language, thought and communication
Brain and Neuropsychology
Pupils complete both exams at the end of Year 11. Each exam will be worth 50% of their GCSE.
Grades will be the 9 to 1 system. There is no coursework requirement for this course.
Psychology is a useful subject if you are considering a career in the following areas:
Counselling
Education and youth work
Criminal Justice
Social work
Healthcare
Sports and coaching
Business, HR, and finance
Marketing, PR, and sales
Understand the key psychological theories and concepts that explain human behaviour.
Develop skills in critical thinking, research evaluation, and essay writing, enabling students to construct informed arguments.
Engage with psychological debates on topics such as mental health, cognition, and social behaviour.
Build awareness of how psychological principles apply to everyday life, improving self-awareness and understanding of others.
Mrs Delaney - Head of Social Science, please click here to send an email