Curriculum Intent
Studying psychology at Southend High School for Girls enables students to learn about a subject with real life applications to a range of social and psychological issues and gain a deeper understanding of their own thoughts and behaviours. The curriculum aims to produce students who attain the highest of A level grades which enable them to access an increasingly competitive academic world at university either to begin a pathway into the psychological profession or another academic subject or the pathway of their choice. Throughout the A level course students will build academic and self-resilience becoming independent learners, who are unafraid of making mistakes and take risks with their learning. The course will develop academic literacy by encouraging wider reading beyond the curriculum into up-to-date research and contemporary issues. By the end of Year 13 students will be effective writers who also have developed the oracy skills to talk with confidence and eloquence using the correct register. Students will have a sound knowledge and understanding of psychological concepts, theories, research methods and ethical issues in relation to a range of psychological topics and contexts and their everyday experiences. The study of psychology will develop students analytical and evaluative skills when dealing with theories, therapies, research methods and studies so that they can question the validity and reliability of research. At the end of the course students will be able to effectively analyse, interpret data. Students have acquired a sound knowledge of research methods, practical skills, ethics, and mathematical skills which will facilitate their ability to design and conduct psychological research through practical activities.
What does it feel like to be a student in the Psychology Department?
Studying Psychology at Southend High School for Girls is challenging, surprising and interesting. You will be expected to be curious about human behaviour and the wider implications for society and the individual. You will be taught to analyse data and evidence and to evaluate these confidently in class discussion and on paper. You will be expected to work collaboratively and respectfully with your peers as well as independently. You will be unafraid of exploring questions which are posed by the subject and understand the importance of exploring an issue rather than reaching a definitive conclusion.
Please click on the button below to download the assessment policy for Psychology.