Our Psychology curriculum is designed to develop students’ understanding of human behaviour, thought processes, and mental health. We aim to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and empathy by exploring the science behind how people think, feel, and act.

We offer an inclusive and engaging curriculum that encourages all students to question assumptions, evaluate evidence, and apply psychological theories to real-life situations. Psychology helps students understand themselves and others, and prepares them for further study and a wide range of careers.

By the end of Key Stage 4, students will be able to:

• Understand key psychological concepts, theories, and research methods
• Analyse and evaluate psychological studies and data
• Apply psychological knowledge to everyday behaviour and contemporary issues
• Reflect on ethical considerations in psychological research
• Communicate ideas clearly using appropriate terminology and evidence

Our intent is to equip students with the knowledge and skills to think scientifically, act ethically, and understand the complexities of human behaviour.

Curriculum overview

Key Stage 4

Students follow the OCR GCSE Psychology specification, which introduces core areas of psychological study and research.

Topics typically include:

• Criminal psychology
• Development
• Psychological problems
• Social influence
• Memory
• Sleep and dreaming

Assessment is through two written exams, testing knowledge, application, and evaluation skills.

Courses offered

• GCSE Psychology

Enrichment opportunities

We offer a range of enrichment activities to deepen students’ interest in psychology and support their academic development. These include:

• Guest speakers: Talks from psychologists, counsellors, and mental health professionals
• Workshops and conferences: Opportunities to engage with current research and applied psychology
• Cross-curricular links: Projects with science, health, and humanities subjects
• Careers in Psychology events: Insights into pathways in clinical, forensic, educational, and occupational psychology

These experiences help students connect psychological theory to real-world contexts and inspire future study and careers in the field.