Subject Leader: Miss O Martin – omartin@knoleacademy.org
Exam Board: AQA
Intent
At the heart of our Psychology curriculum is the exploration of human behaviour—why we think, feel, and act the way we do. We aim to ignite students’ natural curiosity about the mind, empowering them to critically examine both their own behaviour and that of others. By studying the science of psychology, students will not only gain an understanding of psychological theories and concepts but also develop essential skills for thinking analytically and evaluating research.
Through the study of key psychological topics, including mental health, cognitive development, social influences, and the biological bases of behaviour, students will deepen their awareness of individuals and societies. Our curriculum encourages students to engage with both the history and evolution of psychological research, while also evaluating it in light of modern ethical considerations and real-world applications.
We believe psychology offers essential insights for all aspects of life, from enhancing personal relationships to understanding societal issues. Our GCSE and IB Psychology courses aim to provide students with a scientific approach to studying human behaviour, while fostering critical thinking, self-awareness, and empathy towards others.
Students will develop their ability to interpret and conduct psychological research, using both qualitative and quantitative methods. This will prepare them for further academic pursuits and a wide range of career opportunities in fields such as healthcare, education, social work, business, and beyond. Ultimately, our curriculum equips students to approach the complexities of human nature with curiosity, confidence, and compassion.
Implementation
We offer a dynamic and interactive Psychology curriculum designed to engage students and develop their understanding of human behaviour.
In Years 10 and 11, students follow the AQA GCSE Psychology specification, with 5 one-hour lessons per fortnight. Over the course of two years, they study eight modules, including Development, Social Influence, Psychological Problems, and Research Methods. Lessons incorporate a variety of activities such as class experiments, group discussions, and practical research tasks. These opportunities allow students to explore key psychological concepts, build critical thinking skills, and apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios, all while preparing for their GCSE exams.
Our teaching methods emphasise student participation, independent thinking, and collaborative learning. We ensure that every lesson builds towards exam readiness, with regular feedback, assessments, and revision opportunities. This approach equips students not only for success in their exams but also for a deeper understanding of the complexities of human behaviour in both personal and global contexts.
Impact
Studying Psychology at Knole Academy provides students with core insights into human behaviour, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively, think critically, and approach life with empathy. The skills developed, such as analytical thinking, research abilities, and self-reflection, equip students for success in a wide range of careers, including healthcare, sports, education, social work, marketing, and business.
Psychology also fosters personal growth by improving emotional intelligence, decision-making, and stress management, which are essential for both personal and professional development. The subject opens doors to further study in fields such as neuroscience, law, criminology, sports psychology, and sociology, providing a strong foundation for students’ future academic and career aspirations. Ultimately, our Psychology curriculum not only prepares students for exams but also equips them with lifelong skills to navigate and contribute to a diverse, ever-changing world.
Examination Information
Exam Board: AQA
Qualification: GCSE Psychology 8182
Assessment Objectives:
AO1 – Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of psychological ideas, processes, and procedures
AO2 – Apply knowledge and understanding of psychological ideas, processes, and procedures
AO3 – Analyse and evaluate psychological information, ideas, processes, and procedures to make judgements and draw conclusions
Exam Papers:
Students are asked a range of questions across two exam papers; from multiple choice, short answer, diagrams, and short essay questions across two papers, sat in the summer term
Paper 1: Cognition and Behaviour (50%)
1 hour 45 minutes. 100 marks.
- Memory (25 marks)
- Perception (25 marks)
- Development (25 marks)
- Research Methods (25 marks)
Paper 2: Social Context and Behaviour (50%)
1 hour 45 minutes. 100 marks.
- Social Influence (25 marks)
- Language, Thought and Communication (25 marks)
- Brain and Neuropsychology (25 marks)
- Psychological Problems (25 marks)
Future Paths
Students with a GCSE in Psychology often go on to study a range of subjects in 6th form, including IB Psychology.
Those wishing to take the IBCP Route often choose a vocational course such as Criminology, Applied Law, Sports Science, and Health & Social Care.
IB Subjects that go well with IB Psychology include English, Business, Biology, Politics, and Social & Cultural Anthropology.
Careers related to Psychology include:
- Healthcare – psychiatrist, mental health nurse, neurosurgeon, therapist, counsellor, clinical psychologist
- Business – marketing and advertising, human resources, organisational psychologist, public relations
- Education – primary, secondary, or special needs teaching, child psychologists, educational psychologists, SENDCO
- Research – lecturing, planning and carrying out research, publishing articles, writing books
- Criminal Justice – barrister, paralegal, crime scene investigator, forensic psychologist, the police, the national crime agency, security services
- Sports and Wellness – physiotherapist, occupational therapist, sports psychologist, sports coach, health coach
Extra Resources
Extra Resources
- Psych Boost – YouTube Videos of a Psychology Teacher going over content you need to know in 5-10 minute videos, covers all modules except Research Methods
- Quizizz – Battle it out with personalised quizzes using exam style questions and lots of built in repetition to track individual and class progress
Revision Materials
- LearnDojo – Online Textbook with everything you need to know, and nothing that you don’t
- AQA GCSE Psychology Assessment Resources – Past Papers to practise and mark schemes to learn exactly what your examiners are looking for
- Quizlet – Online flashcards specifically created by the Subject Lead for this course aligned perfectly with the AQA Specification and Mark Schemes