Psychology Curriculum Overview
Curriculum Aim & Intent
Aim
The aim of our Psychology curriculum at SMA is to develop students’ understanding of human behaviour through the study of psychological theories, concepts, and research. We seek to equip students with analytical and critical thinking skills, enabling them to evaluate evidence, understand diverse perspectives, and apply psychological knowledge to real-world contexts.
Intent
The Psychology curriculum combines a variety of teaching methods including formal instruction, group work, independent tasks, active learning techniques, research projects, and home learning. It is regularly reviewed to ensure it meets its aims and remains relevant. The curriculum helps students develop critical thinking, oracy, and analytical skills while gaining a solid understanding of psychological concepts and their application to real-life situations.
Students explore a wide range of psychological topics, theories, and research methods, including both classic and contemporary studies. The structure of the GCSE course is designed to be engaging and accessible, with a strong emphasis on mental health and the practical application of psychology. Developed in collaboration with employers and higher education, the curriculum aims to inspire students and prepare them for further study or future careers, encouraging independence and confident communication.
As students’ progress, they build confidence in using specialist vocabulary and applying psychological knowledge to understand human behaviour and social issues. They learn how psychological research is carried out, develop skills in argumentation and critical analysis, and explore the ethical and cultural dimensions of psychology. The curriculum also promotes key employability skills such as resilience, collaboration, and creativity, helping students connect their learning to the wider world of work.
Brief Overview of Curriculum Content for Each Term
Autumn term Spring Term Summer Term Yr 10 - ssues and debates
- Criminal Psychology
- Research methods
- Psychological problems
- Research methods
- Development
- Research methods
Yr 11 - Social influence
- Research methods
- Sleep and dreaming
- Memory
- Memory
- Revision and exam technique
How Our Curriculum Caters For SEND Students
How does our Curriculum cater for students with SEND?
As a school serving a community with high levels of socio-economic disadvantage, we are deeply committed to raising attainment for all students and closing the gaps that can arise from their social context. Our targeted and strategic use of funding and resources is focused on reducing these disparities, ensuring that every pupil has the opportunity to achieve success by the time they leave the Academy.
More specifically, within the teaching of Psychology, we:
- Foster a growth mindset
- Create a safe, welcoming atmosphere
- Access to technology and resources (both online and paper copies)
- Loan book library
- Use of departmental laptops for homework and classwork
- Regular communication with parents/guardians
- High expectations for all students
- Early intervention sessions and catch up sessions for those who have below average attendance
- Targeted academic support
- Small group sessions
- Real-World connections in lessons
- Reference to high professional careers throughout the course
- Guest speakers and online webinar opportunities to enhance cultural capital
- Visual Learning and assessment timelines provided to students to navigate the course in case of absence.
How Our Curriculum Caters For Disadvantaged Students
How does our curriculum cater for disadvantaged students and those from minority groups?
As a school serving a community with high levels of socio-economic disadvantage, we are deeply committed to raising attainment for all students and closing the gaps that can arise from their social context. Our targeted and strategic use of funding and resources is focused on reducing these disparities, ensuring that every pupil has the opportunity to achieve success by the time they leave the Academy.
More specifically, within the teaching of Psychology, we:
- Foster a growth mindset
- Create a safe, welcoming atmosphere
- Access to technology and resources (both online and paper copies)
- Loan book library
- Use of departmental laptops for homework and classwork
- Regular communication with parents/guardians
- High expectations for all students
- Early intervention sessions and catch up sessions for those who have below average attendance
- Targeted academic support
- Small group sessions
- Real-World connections in lessons
- Reference to high professional careers throughout the course
- Guest speakers and online webinar opportunities to enhance cultural capital
- Visual Learning and assessment timelines provided to students to navigate the course in case of absence.
Knowledge Organisers
Other Related Curriculum Documents
