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    • Curriculum

    Psychology

    Why Choose Psychology?

    Why do people behave the way they do? How does the brain work? What role does the environment play in shaping behaviour?

    Psychology gives you a fascinating insight into the human mind. You will explore major psychological theories, analyse real research, and debate key issues with your peers. This course is ideal for students who enjoy investigating patterns in behaviour and want to understand the link between thought, emotion and action.

    Course Overview – Year 12

    In Year 12, you will study:

    • Approaches in Psychology – The major perspectives that explain human behaviour

    • Key Research Studies – Influential experiments and their impact on the discipline

    • Topics such as Memory, Attachment and Psychopathology – How we remember, how relationships form, and what happens when mental health breaks down

    • Research Methods – Designing investigations, collecting data and analysing results

    Course Overview – Year 13

    Year 13 builds on your knowledge with more advanced content:

    • Issues and Debates in Psychology – Ethical, cultural and scientific considerations

    • Criminal Behaviour and Forensic Psychology – Why people commit crimes and how psychology informs the justice system

    • Additional Topics – Relationships, Autism, therapies (including psychosurgery), and the biological bases of behaviour

    You will deepen your ability to interpret data and apply psychological theory to real-world scenarios.

    Assessment

    Psychology is assessed through three written examinations at the end of Year 13, which test your:

    • Knowledge of psychological concepts and research

    • Ability to apply theory to practical contexts

    • Skills in analysis, evaluation and interpretation of evidence

    There is no coursework element.

    Why Study Psychology at John Kyrle?

    At JKHS, Psychology is taught by passionate and experienced specialists who bring the subject to life. You will benefit from:

    • Interactive lessons involving discussion, debate and critical thinking

    • Practical opportunities to carry out your own research

    • A supportive learning environment that helps you achieve your best academically and personally

    Where Can Psychology Take Me?

    University

    Psychology A Level provides an excellent foundation for degrees in:

    • Psychology (Clinical, Forensic, Educational, Sports)

    • Law and Criminology

    • Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences

    • Education and Child Development

    • Business, Human Resources and Marketing

    Careers

    Many Psychology students go on to work in:

    • Mental Health Services

    • Social Work and Youth Work

    • Education

    • Criminal Justice

    • Marketing, HR and Public Services

    Skills for Life

    You will develop transferable skills including:

    • Data analysis and interpretation

    • Critical thinking and problem-solving

    • Research and communication skills

    • A deeper understanding of human behaviour, diversity and wellbeing

    Teaching Staff

    Mrs Steph Doughty – Subject Leader
    psychology@jkhs.org.uk

    Mrs Beth Capron

    Miss Kate Bellingham

    Miss Billie Smith

     

    Qualification at a Glance

    Exam Board

    OCR – A Level Psychology (H567)

    Course Structure

    Year 12

    • Approaches in Psychology

    • Key Research Studies

    • Memory, Attachment & Psychopathology

    • Research Methods

    Year 13

    • Issues & Debates

    • Criminal Behaviour / Forensic Psychology

    • Additional topics such as Relationships, Autism & Biological Psychology

    • Assessment

    • 3 written exams (2 hours each)

    • 100% examination — no coursework

    Entry Requirements

    Students should have:

    • At least Grade 5 in GCSE English Language

    • At least Grade 5 in GCSE Maths

    • At least Grade 5 in Science (Biology preferred but not essential)

     

    • Further development of research methods and data analysis

     

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