Our curriculum intent is to have an ambitious and inclusive curriculum, that empowers our students to become life-long learners and successful global citizens. 

Through the study of AQA A Level Psychology, students will form an appreciation for the study of the mind and understanding human behaviour, developing a broad range of skills including analysis of psychological data, research methods and creating a well-reasoned argument. A wide range of psychological topics are covered including: social influence, memory, attachment, relationships, eating behaviour and aggression. Students will analyse a range of case studies, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of psychological theories and examining the opinions of experts. Through a well-sequenced curriculum, we intend to embed knowledge and skills that challenge all learners.

Our curriculum is designed to cultivate a rich subject specific vocabulary, enabling our students to think and write like a Psychologist. Students are taught subject specialist and disciplinary language in an explicit and direct manner.

As part of our Enriched and Society-centred curriculum students learn about Psychologists from minority ethnic groups (e.g. Keisha York, Founding Director of BAME in Psychiatry & Psychology) so that students are able to see the positive role models and diversity within this discipline. The nature of the Psychology curriculum means that we focus on a variety of societal issues such as mental health, prejudice and abuse and we use this as a platform on which to promote not only our Hestonian Values but also the importance of democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, tolerance and mutual respect. 

To raise aspirations and allow our students to make informed decisions about their future, we provide subject specific careers education. Students learn about educational and skill requirements for professions such as Policy Makers, Psychologists, Counsellors and Social Workers. 

Our Curriculum Maps outline our curriculum design and the development of knowledge and skills in Years 12 and 13. The curriculum is adapted to support and challenge students with different starting points, whilst remaining ambitious for all. Students are examined on the AQA Specification in A Level Psychology.

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