CHRISTOPHER WHITEHEAD
LANGUAGE COLLEGE AND SIXTH FORM
WELCOME TO CWLC SIXTH FORM!
ISABELLA CARTER | SIXTH FORM STUDENT
Psychology is a fascinating subject because it introduces ways to understand how people think, learn and behave, and why they succumb to biases even in the face of contradictory information. Psychology has helped me understand the social world through a scientific lens. The teachers in the psychology department at CWLC are supportive, approachable and take a personal interest in each student.
WHY CHOOSE A-LEVEL PSYCHOLOGY?
Psychology can be defined as the scientific study of the mind and human behaviour. One of the main aims of the A-Level psychology course is to provide students with an opportunity to acquire a better understanding of how the human mind works and how this affects behaviour. We will do this by studying introductory topics in Psychology, where students will learn about conformity and obedience, how the mind remembers and forgets, how children form attachments, as well as the treatment of anxiety and OCD. In addition to this, students will also study psychology in context, where they will learn about the different approaches in psychology and scientific research methods, including statistical analysis and data handling. In the second year of the course, students will deepen their understanding of human behaviour, by studying Issues and debates in Psychology, topics such as Forensic Psychology, Relationships and Schizophrenia. There is no expectation to have studied Psychology at GCSE level.
WHY STUDY A-LEVEL PSYCHOLOGY AT CWLC?
We are extremely proud of the results we have achieved at A level. In 2023, 35% of students achieved A*-A, 70% A*-B and 100% A*-E; phenomenal and true reflection of dedicated, experienced staff and extremely hardworking students.
Students will be taught through a variety of methods, which will aim to challenge their ability to learn and retain new information and key concepts at a fast pace. Lessons typically will include flipped learning, class discussions, critical analysis, exam application and practical research. Students will be expected to complete homework, maintain deadlines and undertake nine hours further independent study in Psychology per fortnight.
In return, students will have access to excellent resources, weekly intervention sessions for those who require them and relevant online learning platforms and textbooks. Our fantastic enrichment programme means that students can attend lectures by Forensic Psychologists and Criminal Investigators, such as Professor Craig Jackson from Birmingham City University, Psychology in Action talks at Warwick University and Revision Days organised by Malvern College.
WHAT COULD YOU DO NEXT?
Because Psychologists use scientific methodology and apply this to humans, A Level Psychology links well to both humanities and science-based subjects, including A-levels in: Biology, English Literature, History, Religious Studies and Sociology.
It is a suitable course for a wide range of careers that involve working with
people, as well as for progression on to higher education. Psychology is a well-regarded academic subject which prepares students for a variety of university courses and careers including, Clinical Psychology, Sociology, mental health, counselling, education, sport, the media, law, marketing and finance, the police and criminology.
As part of our commitment to ensuring that students finish their course, well informed about the choices available to them with a Psychology A-Level, we also ensure that as part of our careers programme, all students engage in a series of classes taught by past students outlining their Psychology journey.