Psychology

The Psychology A-Level at Burlington House Sixth Form offers an engaging introduction to the scientific study of the human mind and behavior. This two-year qualification is designed to inspire a deep curiosity about the human experience while providing rich insights into how we think, feel, and act. In this A-level you will study a range of topics, including OCD, Gender and Social Influence.

Why Study Psychology?

Students will develop a sophisticated understanding of psychological theories and research. Human behaviour will be examined from a range of cognitive, social, biological and developmental perspectives. Beyond theory, the course equips learners with highly valued skills for Higher Education and future employment, such as critical analysis, independent thinking, and robust research methods. Students of A-level Psychology frequently go on to careers in therapy, business, research and education.

What You Will Study

The course is delivered in a structured, two-year format with three primary areas of focus:

• Year 12: Introductory Topics & Context
  • Social Influence: Exploring conformity, obedience, and the power of social roles.
  • Memory: Understanding how we process information and why we forget, including eye-witness testimony.
  • Attachment: Investigating early childhood bonds and their lifelong impact.
  • Clinical Psychology and Mental Health: Examining mental health conditions such as phobias, depression, and OCD.
• Year 13: Advanced Options & Biopsychology
  • Biopsychology: Mapping the nervous system, brain structure, and the “fight or flight” response.
  • Gender: Analyzing biological and social explanations for gender development and identity.
  • Schizophrenia: A deep dive into the symptoms, biological causes, and diverse psychological therapies for this complex condition.
  • Forensic Psychology: This topic includes a fascinating examination of some of the explanations for criminal behaviour, offender profiling techniques and ways of dealing with offenders.
  • Issues and Debates: Engaging with the big questions, such as Nature vs. Nurture, Free Will vs. Determinism, and ethical implications in research.

Developing Research Skills

A core component of our curriculum is Research Methods. This will introduce students to a range of methodological techniques and equip students with ways to critically evaluate key studies and theories.

Assessment

This specification is designed to be taken over two years, culminating in three final papers:

1. Paper 1: Introductory Topics (Social Influence, Memory, Attachment, Clinical Psychology and mental health).
2. Paper 2: Psychology in Context (Approaches, Research Methods, Biopsychology).
3. Paper 3: Issues and Options (Issues and Debates, Gender, Schizophrenia, Forensic Psychology).

Support & Adaptation

At Burlington House, we ensure all learners reach their potential. Lessons are adapted to individual needs, with LSA support utilized for subject knowledge and essay writing, and laptops provided with necessary access arrangements for all assessments.