Psychology is taught at A Level and is, fundamentally,  about the students, their friends and family and the people they will meet in the future. Understanding others is fundamental in life, and in that respect, we are all natural Psychologists as we seek to explain our own and others behaviour in everything we do. Psychology A-level introduces a range of research methods that allow for objective, carefully balanced investigations of the reasons underlying behaviour. It removes many of the myths surrounding the subject and brings scientific rigour to the now complex understandings of human behaviour and emotion.

Psychology is delivered with research methods at its heart. The scientific forms of measurement and investigation of behaviour run concurrently through all of the different topics set out in the AQA A syllabus. Independent research methods lessons are carried out biweekly so that students can continue to apply the huge range of new concepts that they acquire in the first few weeks of teaching. An important assessment objective in the A- level is discussion and evaluation (A03) and unlike many of the other science A-levels all research and theory is critiqued as the students’ progress through each topic. This critical thinking is not only important within the subject but essential to life after psychology. This critical thinking is central to A-level Psychology right from the outset. At all stages, the use of collaborative learning encourages students to reason logically and creatively through discussion, ideas and concepts. Misconceptions and wrong answers are an opportunity to improve and deepen understanding of concepts, through use of effective questioning and discussion.

Psychology A-level aims to:

• To develop a positive attitude to psychology as an interesting and exciting subject in which all students gain success and enjoyment
• To develop psychological understanding through systematic direct teaching of appropriate learning objectives
• To develop an ability in students to express themselves fluently, to talk about the subject with confidence, using correct psychological terminology and vocabulary
• To develop and make connections across topics in Psychology.
• To develop the ability to think clearly and logically with independence of thought and flexibility of mind
• To develop skills and knowledge and a quick recall of basic facts.