PSYCHOLOGY @ HAYES
OUR CURRICULUM PURPOSE
The intent for the Psychology curriculum is to ensure that our young psychologists are equipped with the necessary scientific knowledge, skills and vocabulary to develop a better understanding of themselves and the wider world. The Psychology curriculum will enable our students to value the importance of Psychological research and will promote an awe-driven curiosity of the human body and mind.
DEVELOPING COURAGEOUS, INTELLECTUAL, CONTEMPORARY PSYCHOLOGISTS
KEY FEATURES OF LEARNING
The Psychology curriculum strongly develops ‘theory to practice’ thinking and is designed in light of contemporary research. Our lessons are driven by high-order thinking and discussions which equip students with a stronger awareness of how to describe, evaluate and apply psychological knowledge in ways that enhance human life. Moreover, the ability to engage in critical dialogue and present work orally has wider social benefits, as critical thinking develops our students into responsible citizens that are able to make better decisions on the basis of careful and detailed evaluation of evidence, which is important in an increasingly complex society.
DEVELOPING LEARNERS
The Psychology curriculum will make a profound, positive impact on the academic, moral and social outcomes of every student. Psychology contributes to the moral education of students as it involves students discussing values, attitudes and beliefs relating to a range of ethical, social and controversial issues (E.g. culture bias, ethical costs of conducting research, animal research, and gender bias).
Psychology is a multifaceted scientific subject therefore the curriculum is a channel for interdisciplinary learning by supporting students to make connections between their prior and current study of Maths, English and the Sciences. The Psychology department follows the AQA specification which covers British Psychological Society accredited topics such as human memory, psychopathology, social influence, forensic psychology and schizophrenia. Research methods and data handling techniques used by psychologists are also a core focus. The broad range of topics taught in Psychology such as research methods, biopsychology, conceptual and historical issues in psychology allow students to gain well-rounded knowledge in order to consider different pathways for the future. The curriculum content covered in A Level Psychology serves as a valuable basis for higher education courses such as Psychology, Neuroscience, Law; Business, Nursing and can lead to careers in the health, education and research sectors.