Warwick School encourages pupils to develop curiosity about the world around them, a quality that lies at the heart of psychology.
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour, offering pupils the opportunity to explore human thought and action through a range of perspectives, including cognitive neuroscience, biological psychology and social psychology.
In the first year of the course, pupils study memory, attachment, social influence, biopsychology and the clinical psychology of mental health. Biopsychology includes a practical brain dissection, allowing students to develop their understanding of brain structure and function.
Alongside this content, there is a strong emphasis on research methods, where pupils design, conduct and evaluate their own psychological investigations.
Throughout the course, pupils are encouraged to consider the real-world application of psychological research. For example, theories of obedience to authority are explored to deepen understanding of historical events such as the Holocaust, developing both critical thinking and ethical awareness.
In the second year, pupils engage with a diverse and contemporary range of topics that generate meaningful debate and insight. These include forensic psychology, gender and schizophrenia, each examined through both biological and psychological explanations. A unifying element of the course is Issues and debates in psychology, which underpins all areas of study and explores key questions such as the nature–nurture debate and free will versus determinism.
Psychology is classified as a science A Level, but it is distinctive in the way it bridges science, mathematics and English. It is highly regarded by universities due to the breadth of skills it develops, including statistical analysis, experimental design, critical evaluation and extended essay writing. As a result, our pupils progress to a wide range of degree courses at leading universities, including psychology, medicine, law, politics, neuroscience and sports science.
The department prides itself on its highly experienced and passionate teachers, including staff with examining experience. Lessons are adaptive and carefully structured to provide both challenge and support. We are approachable, but maintain high expectations of all students, fostering independence, resilience and academic ambition.
Pupils benefit from a wide range of enrichment opportunities that extend learning beyond the specification. These include our annual Brain Day with renowned neuroscientist Dr Guy Sutton, participation in the Neuroscience Olympiad and national essay competitions, an active student representative scheme, and a dedicated reading week culminating in a Harkness discussion.
A Level course specification
We follow the AQA Psychology A Level specification, with a focus on developing scientific competence, research skills, data analysis and high-level written communication.
The A Level consists of three externally examined papers, each weighted equally (33.3%). All examinations are two hours in duration and consist of 96 marks. Assessment includes multiple- choice questions, short-answer responses and extended essay writing.
