Free A Level Psychology in Cockermouth

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAQA awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 GCE A Level in Psychology Course in Cockermouth. Classes run at Cockermouth School, full-time during the day. The course takes two years to complete. In year one, you'll study core approaches including learning, cognitive and biological psychology, alongside topics such as memory, eyewitness testimony, obedience to authority, and mental health. Year two broadens your knowledge with humanistic and psychodynamic perspectives, plus in-depth study of schizophrenia, relationships, and aggression. You'll need at least grade B in GCSE English Language and two B grades in sciences; grade B in maths is preferred.

Who this course is for

During the first year, the course covers the main approaches in psychology (learning, cognitive and biological) and explores ?psychology in context?, for example, attachment styles, memory and eyewitness testimony, obedience to authority and mental health.

The second year of the A level aims to broaden and deepen knowledge with regard to the approaches, incorporating humanistic and psychodynamic perspectives. You will also study three core topics: schizophrenia, relationships and aggression. Research methods are a significant element to both years of the A level course. Skills in the design and implementation of a range of research methods will be developed, together with written communication skills, analytical and reasoning skills, and problem-solving. Also, assessing issues from a broader perspective (for example, cross-culturally and historically), data analysis and interpretation, and mathematical skills.

Entry requirements

Minimum of grade B at GCSE English language and two B grades in sciences. Grade B in mathematics is preferred.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the main psychological approaches: learning, cognitive, biological, humanistic and psychodynamic.
  • You'll study attachment styles, memory and eyewitness testimony in real investigative contexts.
  • You'll examine obedience to authority and what psychological research tells us about social influence.
  • You'll analyse mental health, including an in-depth study of schizophrenia.
  • You'll investigate the psychology of relationships and human aggression.
  • You'll develop research methods skills, including how to design, conduct and evaluate psychological studies.
  • You'll build critical analysis and independent thinking skills valued in higher education and employment.

How you will learn

You'll be taught in classroom-based daytime sessions at Cockermouth School. The AQA specification is assessed entirely by written examinations at the end of the two-year course. There are three papers, each covering different areas of the specification. There is no coursework component. You'll develop exam technique alongside your subject knowledge throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cockermouth School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Psychology graduate roles: research assistant in academic or clinical settings.
  • Mental health support worker: assisting people with psychological difficulties.
  • Social worker: supporting individuals and families in the community.
  • Teaching assistant: working with pupils in schools, often alongside SEND support.
  • Human resources assistant: applying behavioural insight in workplace settings.
  • Market research analyst: using psychological principles to interpret consumer behaviour.
  • Police or probation service: roles that draw on understanding of behaviour and decision-making.

What you could study next

A Level Psychology is widely accepted as an entry requirement for psychology degree programmes at UK universities. You could go on to study a BSc Psychology (a British Psychological Society-accredited degree is the first step toward becoming a chartered psychologist). Related degree routes include criminology, sociology, neuroscience, and social work. If you want to work clinically, a degree is followed by further postgraduate training, such as a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.