Qualification: A Level Psychology
Exam Board: AQA
A Level Psychology is a fascinating course that explores the complexities of human behaviour and the factors that shape the way we think, feel and interact with others. You will investigate topics such as memory, social influence, attachment, mental health and psychological approaches, while developing your understanding of research methods and scientific evidence. The course encourages critical thinking, analysis and evaluation, making it an excellent choice for students interested in psychology, healthcare, education, criminology, social sciences and a wide range of related degrees and careers.
Studying Psychology isn’t just about learning what Freud said or memorising brain parts – it’s about thinking like a scientist, arguing like a philosopher, and writing like a pro. This course will sharpen your ability to ask questions, analyse evidence, and make informed decisions – skills that are useful in just about every career you can think of.
You’ll build:
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• The ability to analyse data and spot patterns using real statistics
• Confidence in writing structured, persuasive essays
• An understanding of ethical and scientific research methods
• The ability to evaluate theories, studies and everyday behaviour
In Year 12, you’ll get a solid grounding across a range of topics – from memory and attachment to mental health and conformity – while also learning how to carry out psychological research.
In Year 13, you’ll explore more complex theories, apply what you’ve learned to real-world issues, and debate the hottest controversies in modern psychology (nature vs nurture, free will vs determinism, and more).
The course is assessed entirely through three written exams at the end of Year 13, with no coursework – just your brainpower, a pen,
and plenty of past paper practice.
Here’s how it’s broken down:
Year 12 – Building the Foundations
You’ll get to grips with the core psychological theories and classic studies that have shaped our understanding of human behaviour.
Paper 1: Introductory Topics in Psychology
• Social Influence – Why do we obey, conform, and follow the crowd?
• Memory – How reliable is our memory, and why do we forget?
• Attachment – How do early bonds shape who we become?
• Psychopathology – What causes mental illnesses, and how are they treated?
2-hour exam | 33.3% of the A Level
Paper 2: Psychology in Context
• Approaches in Psychology – From Freud to fMRI, how have psychologists explained behaviour?
• Biopsychology – The brain, the nervous system and the science behind behaviour
• Research Methods – Learn to design your own psychological studies and analyse real data
2-hour exam | 33.3% of the A Level
Year 13 – Going Deeper, Thinking Bigger
You’ll apply your knowledge to explore more complex and fascinating areas of psychology.
Paper 3: Issues and Options in Psychology
• Issues and Debates – Are we really free? Is psychology biased? Are humans more influenced by nature or nurture?
• Relationships – What makes people fall in (and out of) love?
• Schizophrenia – What is it, what causes it, and how is it treated?
• Aggression – What drives violent behaviour, and can it be reduced?
2-hour exam | 33.3% of the A Level
Every exam is a mix of multiple-choice questions, short answers, and extended essays – so you’ll develop the skills to argue
your case with evidence and insight.
Minimum of Grade 5 in English Literature & Language, Maths and two Science subjects.
University enrichment trips
Visits to places such as Kingston University for psychology degree and careers talks, lab tours, and exposure to university level research environments. Potential links with academics and researchers through these visits.
Behaviour observation fieldwork
The planned ZSL London Zoo behaviour project linked to learning theory, animal behaviour, observation methods, and research skills. Gives students practical experience applying psychological concepts outside the classroom.
Guest speakers and widening participation events
Promotion of opportunities such as the University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Clinical Psychology workshop for Year 12/13 students. Exposure to careers in clinical psychology and mental health professions.
Psychology opens doors. With over 300 degree courses across the UK, it’s one of the most popular and competitive subjects at
university – and for good reason. Psychology graduates are in demand because they can understand people, manage data, and
communicate clearly.
Some of the careers you could go into include:
• Clinical, Educational or Forensic Psychology
• Neuropsychology or Criminal Profiling
• Sports and Health Psychology
• Occupational Psychology and HR
• Marketing, Law, Social Work or Teaching
Whether you want to work with people, improve mental health services, crack criminal cases, or influence policy – Psychology gives you the tools to make a difference.
Year 12 student
"I am currently studying Psychology, English Literature and Language, Sociology and Business Studies. I hope to do a degree in Criminology with Psychology, as I'm interested in learning about different aspects of criminal behaviour, and I'd like to work as a forensic psychologist or profiler.
I enjoy studying at Coombe Sixth Form because the teachers support you to ensure you fulfil your potential."