Our Aims

We want our students to be critical thinkers who can engage with psychological research and theories from the past and present. 

• We aim for students to be able to question not only their own behaviour, but also the world in which they live. In this way, they will be able to engage with a breadth of issues spanning paradigm development. The course aims to introduce core theoretical principles of psychology, whilst grounding ideas in research methods. Students come to understand the mutually enhancing relationship between theory and practice to develop knowledge of quantitative and qualitative approaches. We want our students to understand how and why theories change over time. 
• Students will cover units that look at individual differences, considering memory, psychopathology, aggression and biopsychology. They will also look at principles of human interaction, covering attachment, influence, development, relationships and debates in psychology. 
• Students wishing to study at University will be well-prepared due to the development of logical reasoning, wider reading skills, a knowledge of research methods and the ability to write in a scientific manner. 
• This course complements other pathways at Logic Studio School, providing academic rigour alongside other A Levels; in particular, Psychology supports the learning of History, English, Sociology, Maths and Business. Furthermore, evaluative skills gained from the study of Psychology are beneficial for BTEC subjects such as Creative Media or Business. 
• We want all pupils to understand how Psychology links to life beyond the classroom; we want them to know and understand choices that are made on an individual and a societal level. 

Our Delivery:

We know that consistency across the delivery of the curriculum is key. 

• Students will compile work in folders and books in accordance with the sixth form work policy. Books are brought to every lesson and folders are brought for portfolio tasks, feedback and organisation lessons. 
• Students will be assessed through regular portfolio tasks; these will be arranged in their folders. Assessments have also been structured in a way that allows students to build on knowledge and skills systematically, ranging from recall tests, moving to smaller exam style questions and then onto larger essays.
• The structure of the course allows for foundational skills to be developed. Pupils will acquire knowledge whilst continually building on their previous learning, creating meaningful schema over time. 
• A range of DNAs are used at the start of every lesson and focus on knowledge recall; these reflect best practice in terms of daily, weekly and monthly reviews.
• Vocabulary is taught explicitly:  Students are given and tested regularly on Tier 2 and Tier 3 vocabulary for every unit of work.
• Reading and writing are at the heart of what we do. We model effective reading, showing students how to annotate and complete wider research and read critical works. Pupils will read case studies and papers in lessons, whilst being guided through independent reading outside of lesson time.  Every student will be expected to read aloud.
• We model how to write, explicitly teaching exam skills for MCQs, short answer questions and extended writing questions.
• There is a high-accountability expectation of 2-3 hours Prep to be completed / week. Very often this will require students to consolidate knowledge of what they have learnt, but may involve revision or preparation for a presentation.
• Students will get the opportunity to conduct research and develop practical research skills and learn how knowledge is generated in the field of Psychology.