Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. Have you ever followed orders that you didn’t believe in. Changed what you are wearing in order to fit in or changed your answer in the classroom as the person next to you had a different answer. Throughout your time at Clarendon we will be studying the reasons behind this behaviour. The course covers a wide range of topics; running through all topics is a strong emphasis on the scientific process where you will learn what is required when conducting psychological research During year one you will explore the topics of research methods, memory, social influence, approaches, psychopathology, biopsychology and attachment. In year two you will develop a deeper understanding of research design and data analysis, as well as additional topics of biopsychology, issues and debates, schizophrenia, relationships and forensic psychology. All of these topics will aid your understanding of biological, social and psychological explanations of behaviour.
Have you ever wondered why some people develop mental disorders, whilst others don’t? Why those convicted of crime and sent to prison return to society reformed, whilst others go on to commit further crime? Psychology attempts to examine questions such as this; it is a fascinating science with cutting edge research that has many real world applications.
Understanding human behaviour can help address many of the problems and issues in society today, such as crime, reliability of eye-witness testimony, treatment of psychological disorders, and brain recovery after trauma. Psychology will complement just about any other subject. Students who study psychology often also study Biology, Geography, Sociology, Business, English, and Maths. This course will develop a range of valuable skills, including critical analysis, independent thinking and research. These skills are particularly relevant to young people and are transferable to further study and the workplace. If you have an intrinsic interest in human behaviour and how science works, then psychology is for you. There are a number of opportunities to attend educational trips: ● Chester Zoo ● Educational films/documentaries ● Bethlem Museum of the Mind ● Freud Museum
Level 3 (Advanced)
- 5 GCSEs grade 4 or above including mathematics
- Grade 5 GCSE in English
You will be regularly assessed by your teachers throughout both years, including a number of mock examinations and practice questions Your A Level qualification is based upon three two-hour examinations at the end of the second year, which are externally assessed by the exam board AQA
This course will allow you to further your education through degree courses or apprenticeships/higher level apprenticeships in related fields such as:
· Medicine
· Clinical Psychology
· Occupational Health
· Policing
· Educational Psychology
· Health and sport Psychology
· Careers in HR or Teaching
Please Note: While every effort is made to maintain the accuracy of these details, changes can and do occur. Please confirm the course details when enrolling.