^{Breda Academy Psychology students were the British Psychological Society (NI) A Level Prize Winners in 2016 & 2018}

Subject Overview: Psychology – An Inspirational Subject that will change the way you think about things forever.

Psychology is the scientific study of people, the mind and behaviour. Psychological research and practice touches all our lives and has direct relevance to policy in areas such as enhancing health and well-being, criminal behaviour and maximising the potential of young people. Many of the students at Breda have gone on to study Psychology at University and it is also a course which is relevant to Undergraduate courses in education, nursing, child care and marketing, etc. This is an A Level qualification which is accepted by Universities.

Key Stage 5 Qualification Courses and Programmes of Study:

In September 2024 we will be introducing a new course - WJEC A Level in Psychology

Year one - AS Qualification

• Unit one - Past to Present - You will learn about five psychological approaches: biological, psychodynamic, behaviourist, cognitive and positive. Each approach explains human behaviour in a slightly different way. One hour 30 minute exam = 20% of A Level qualification.

• Unit two - Using psychological concepts - You will learn more about how psychologists design and conduct research. One hour 30 minute exam = 20% of A Level qualification.

(AS grades will be carried over towards the overall A Level qualification)

Year two - A2 Qualification

• Unit three - Implications in the Real World - You will deepen your understanding of psychology by looking at a range of interesting human behaviours. You will study three behaviours: Addictive behaviours, Criminal behaviours and Schizophrenia. 
• You will apply your psychological knowledge to a range of contemporary debates: cultural bias, ethical costs of conducting research, non-human animals, scientific status and sexism. Two hours 30 minute exam = 40% of A Level qualification.

• Unit four Applied Research Methods - As part of this course you will review your knowledge of research methods and you will get an opportunity to undertake two research projects (individually, in pairs or in groups). One hour 30 minute exam = 20% of A Level qualification.

A range of resources and teaching methods are used: textbooks, group activities, blended learning, google classroom, peer to peer teaching, conducting practical projects, flipped learning activities, etc. Pupils are expected to contribute fully to all class activities and complete all homework activities / test preparation. Psychology is taught by Ms McMullan in room 18, where students will have access to the computers for online learning.