Psychology
at Samuel Whitbread Academy, Shefford · school or sixth form
What the college says
Psychology is the study of human behaviour and what causes individuals to behave in the way they do, looking at a variety of different approaches to explain their behaviour. In the AS year students will study for two exams. The first exam is called Introductory Topics in Psychology: in this paper students will learn about the psychology of Memory, Attachment and Social Influence. Students will be discussing questions such as how do babies attach to a caregiver and what affect does early attachment have on future development. They will study what makes the majority of people conform to societal rules and expectations whilst others prefer to be in the minority and show in their individuality. In the second exam paper students look at Psychology in Context; within this unit they look at Psychopathology, Research Methods and Approaches within Psychology. This paper tests the students understanding of the scientific processes used within Psychology and how the different approaches seek to explain a variety of human behaviours from perspectives such as behavioural and biological. In the second year students will build upon their knowledge and understanding from their AS year. If they continue onto the course, they will be tested on the same topics as in their AS year so as to attain an A level in Psychology as the course is now linear from 2015. Students will then learn from a range of options including Stress, Schizophrenia, Addiction, Aggression and Relationships. They will have
What you need to get on
APS 4.7. Grade 5 in GCSE Maths, 5 in GCSE English Language and Literature, two grade 4s in GCSE Sciences and if studied, a Grade 5 in GCSE Psychology.
How you are assessed
Academic subjects, mostly exams, three or four at once. The traditional route to university.
What this level means
The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.
Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?
Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.
Where it runs
Samuel Whitbread Academy
Shefford Road, Clifton, SG17 5QS
DaytimeClassroom basedCheck the journey
Start dates
- 4 September 2026 · Clifton
Who else teaches this exact qualification
Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.
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