Outline
Research Methods
Learn how psychologists design investigations, collect data and analyse their findings.
You will develop an understanding of how psychological research is carried out and how evidence is used to support or challenge different explanations of behaviour.
Core Studies
Explore classic and contemporary research that has helped shape our understanding of psychology.
You will examine influential studies, consider their findings and evaluate the methods used by psychologists.
Mental Health
Examine psychological disorders and explore different explanations, treatments and issues surrounding mental health.
Sport Psychology
Investigate the psychological factors that can influence sporting performance, including:
- Motivation
- Leadership
- Performance
- Psychological influences in sport
Crime
Explore the psychology of criminal behaviour, including:
- Criminal behaviour
- Offender profiling
- Crime prevention strategies
Studying Psychology at Pendleton includes opportunities to put your learning into practice and explore the subject beyond lessons.
Enrichment opportunities include:
- Conducting your own psychological observation at the Trafford Centre
- Taking part in the Research Pioneers programme, where you can design and carry out your own research
- A first-year trip to London
- An overseas trip in Year 2
These experiences give you opportunities to develop your research skills, apply psychological ideas in real-world settings and experience the subject beyond the classroom.
Progression
Psychology can support progression to university and a wide variety of careers.
Clinical Psychology
Potential areas of work include:
- Assessment and treatment of mental health conditions
- Working with individuals and families
- Psychological therapies and interventions
- NHS and healthcare settings
Forensic Psychology
You could progress towards areas involving:
- Understanding criminal behaviour
- Offender rehabilitation and treatment
- Supporting the criminal justice system
- Working in prisons, courts and secure settings
Wider careers
The skills developed through Psychology can also support progression into:
- Teaching
- Human Resources
- Social Work
- Marketing
- Business
- Healthcare
- Public Services
- Research
- Higher Education
Assessment
A Level Psychology is 100% examination assessed.
You will complete three examinations across the two-year course.
Throughout the course, you will be expected to apply psychological knowledge, analyse data, evaluate evidence and develop well-supported written responses.
Entry Requirements
A combination of 5 Grade 4’s and 5’s or above at GCSE (including maths and English). * One Vocational Qualification in a related subject area will be considered in place of a GCSE. Subject Specific Entry Requirements: GCSE Maths at Grade 5.
* Fees
Don’t let the cost of studying put you off – most of our students study for FREE, and those who don’t qualify for funding are very often eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.
Eligibility depends on both the course you have chosen to study and your individual circumstances.
Apply
To add a course to your application, click 'Apply', once you have selected all your courses, click 'My Applications' top right, to continue the application process.
Select your choice below:
Name
Available At
Start Date
Fee
Apply
Academic Yr
27/28
Name
Psychology (A-Level) (Level 3)
Available At
Pendleton Sixth Form College
Start Date
01/09/2027
Fee
£0*
Don’t let the cost of studying put you off – most of our students study for FREE, and those who don’t qualify for funding are very often eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.
Eligibility depends on both the course you have chosen to study and your individual circumstances.
Please confirm you are applying to start in the
Academic Year