AQA A-level
Psychology.

Your Qualification.

Search

Please enter your search term below

Course overview

Learners will study a BTEC/NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport or Business to develop a wide range of vocational knowledge and skills in combination with an A-Level in Psychology over two years.

The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport provides the knowledge, skills and understanding required within the sports coaching and physical activity sector. It will allow learners to gain transferable skills and progress to employment, an apprenticeship or higher education in a sport-related or different sector in line with career aspirations.

The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business provides a wide-ranging study of the business sector. It is designed for learners who wish to pursue a career in business, primarily via higher education to access graduate entry employment with businesses, or through higher and degree level apprenticeships.

Learners will also explore psychology in context by applying psychological knowledge and understanding in a range of different contexts. This includes approaches in psychology, biopsychology, and research methods. Learners will analyse, interpret, and evaluate psychological concepts, ethical issues, theories, and research studies and evaluate therapies and treatments, including their appropriateness and effectiveness. In carrying out practical research activities, learners will manage associated risks and use information and communication technology. Learners will be expected to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of multiple research methods, scientific processes, and techniques of data handling and analysis.

Up to 224 UCAS points available, depending on grades achieved for each part of the study programme.

*Check with your intended university for entry requirements to your desired programme for further details.

AWARDING BODY:

AQA

START DATE:

September 2024

COURSE TYPE:

Blend of Face to Face and Online

DURATION:

2-years

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

We recommend you have five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English, Maths and Science, to be best suited for this programme. We are open to hearing from learners that do not meet the entry requirements to explore suitability.

AGE:

For 16–18-year-olds. Learners aged 19+ may be eligible for funding if they have an EHCP.

COST:

The cost of tuition is fully funded for 16- to 18-year-olds. Sports kit may be required, dependent on education centre. However, bursary/financial support is available for those eligible. Refer to the SCL Bursary Policy for further details.

YOUR PROGRAMME
YOUR EDUCATION
WORK EXPERIENCE
SPORTING ENRICHMENT
PROGRESSION ROUTES

The NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity (Sports Coaching) will allow learners to gain an in-depth understanding of the sport and physical activity sector, acquire a number of practical and technical skills and give them the opportunity to investigate career opportunities.

For a full breakdown of what you will study each year on the NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity (Sports Coaching). Learn More

The BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development will allow learners to gain an in-depth understanding of the sports coaching and development sector, preparing learners to work independently as coaches and giving them the skills and expertise to coach at all levels of sports ability for both children and adults.

For a full breakdown of what you will study each year on the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development. Learn More

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business will allow learners to gain an in-depth understanding of the business sector, preparing learners to work independently in areas such as marketing, finance and business solutions.

For a full breakdown of what you will study each year on the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business. Learn More

For the A-level in Psychology, you will study the following units across the two years:

  • Research methods
  • Approaches
  • Psychopathology
  • Attachment
  • Social influence
  • Memory
  • Biopsychology
  • Issues and debates
  • Cognition and development
  • Eating behaviours
  • Addiction

YOUR EDUCATION

Your AQA A-level in Psychology will combine a mix of theoretical and applied learning.

During your education programme, you will benefit from:

  • High quality and passionate tutors who are specialists in their subject area
  • Quality assurance and performance coaches to oversee your tutor and lessons
  • An innovative learning experience using our virtual learning hub, plus access to free Microsoft software
  • Wellbeing programme and mental health support
  • A safe learning environment with the highest level of safeguarding

 

INFORMATION, ADVICE & GUIDANCE

SCL are nationally accredited for information, advice and guidance and we are trained in these areas to help you with your development.

Our Careers Leader oversees our careers information, advice & guidance strategy. Each learner will receive impartial and relevant guidance to support a successful transition onto their next step of their professional journey, wherever that may be.

Our Careers Leader is dedicated to supporting you to understand your career options and how to get there. This is underpinned by a programme of work experience and continual development of work-ready and life skills.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME

Our passionate team of Progress Coaches will deliver SCL’s Personal Development Programme, which will consist of a blend of group workshops and individual development meetings, aimed to add significant value to the progress and development of each learner.

The programme will include key themes such as morals and values, mental health awareness, healthy relationships, digital skills, and careers, and will form part of your timetable, with a scheduled 1.5 hours per week.

Your Personal Development Programme will allow you to stand out from the crowd. You will develop the behaviours, attitudes and values, inspired by sport, which are transferrable into the professional world, supporting you to receive the best possible opportunities for your future.

In addition, the Progress Coach team will support learners through an online ‘Essentials’ programme, aiming to grow their social awareness and develop them for success.

WORK EXPERIENCE

We understand the difference that experiencing the real world of work can make to your achievement on your course and your ability to make good decisions for your future which is why, as part of your education programme, you will take part in a minimum of 24 hours’ of work experience. 

During your programme, you will receive opportunities to experience a range of careers which link directly to your qualification and also careers outside your subject area which might interest you, link to a hobby or subject you enjoyed at school so you can explore the world of work and where your education at SCL could lead! 

Participating in sports coaching and development related work experience allows you to enhance your personal development and knowledge of the sports industry. 

You will gain insight into what it will be like to work in the sports industry, whilst developing your communication, IT, time management and team working skills. 

Through our partnerships, you will also have the opportunity to explore other career areas by participating in virtual or in-person work experience placements in industries outside of sport that you are interested in finding out more about.  

By showcasing your skills, knowledge and personality through work experience and direct engagement with employers, you will increase your opportunities to secure meaningful employment, an apprenticeship or university place upon completion of your course. 

Further careers information, advice and guidance and support securing an appropriate work experience placement will be provided through our Careers Leader, our team of Progress Coaches and your Tutor.

Alongside your BTEC/NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma, you will complete a minimum of 4 hours’ practical development each week, with the opportunity to take part in weekly competitive match fixtures.

Throughout your programme, you will complete a Player Performance Profile, which will include an evaluation of your playing attributes and game time and injury reviews.

We don’t just measure your progress based on your academic grades on your programme. This is about developing you as a player and as a person.

We will also measure your progress for Sporting Excellence and soft skills, such as communication, presentation, timekeeping and your ability to meet deadlines.

COMPETITIVE MATCH OPPORTUNITIES

During your programme, you will have opportunities to play in competitive matches and league systems to support your sporting development and put your training into practice. Competitive fixtures are scheduled to fit in with your sporting and education development programmes.

Selected SCL football centres* play in the Youth Development League, an FA sanctioned youth league that brings together ambitious footballing talent from across the country.

*Subject to venue

EMPLOYMENT

Upon successful completion of your study programme, you will receive information, support and guidance on a variety of aspects to support you in securing meaningful employment. This will form the basis of your tutorial sessions, in addition to the academic monitoring and target setting.

 

SPORT

Studying with SCL provides you with an opportunity to play professional or non-professional sport, as well as a pathway to progress to a USA Scholarship. An American Scholarship will allow you to continue your studies whilst training and competing at a high level.

 

HIGHER EDUCATION (INCLUDING APPRENTICESHIPS)

Upon successful completion of your programme, you will be eligible to progress onto a relevant higher education degree programme.  Should you decide to combine further study with employment, you will be eligible for an apprenticeship within a relevant industry/sector job role.

 

HIGHER EDUCATION (INCLUDING APPRENTICESHIPS)

Upon successful completion of your programme, you will be eligible to progress onto a relevant higher education degree programme.  Should you decide to combine further study with employment, you will be eligible for an apprenticeship within a relevant industry/sector job role.

 

The world of sport is ever growing and the possibilities for a career in the industry are endless.

We believe that by using the power of sport, you can achieve anything. We give you every opportunity to reach your potential, you have the power to open the door to your future.

See where your future in sport could take you.

Progression Opportunities
YOUR PROGRAMME

The NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity (Sports Coaching) will allow learners to gain an in-depth understanding of the sport and physical activity sector, acquire a number of practical and technical skills and give them the opportunity to investigate career opportunities.

For a full breakdown of what you will study each year on the NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity (Sports Coaching). Learn More

The BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development will allow learners to gain an in-depth understanding of the sports coaching and development sector, preparing learners to work independently as coaches and giving them the skills and expertise to coach at all levels of sports ability for both children and adults.

For a full breakdown of what you will study each year on the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development. Learn More

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business will allow learners to gain an in-depth understanding of the business sector, preparing learners to work independently in areas such as marketing, finance and business solutions.

For a full breakdown of what you will study each year on the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business. Learn More

For the A-level in Psychology, you will study the following units across the two years:

  • Research methods
  • Approaches
  • Psychopathology
  • Attachment
  • Social influence
  • Memory
  • Biopsychology
  • Issues and debates
  • Cognition and development
  • Eating behaviours
  • Addiction

YOUR EDUCATION

YOUR EDUCATION

Your AQA A-level in Psychology will combine a mix of theoretical and applied learning.

During your education programme, you will benefit from:

  • High quality and passionate tutors who are specialists in their subject area
  • Quality assurance and performance coaches to oversee your tutor and lessons
  • An innovative learning experience using our virtual learning hub, plus access to free Microsoft software
  • Wellbeing programme and mental health support
  • A safe learning environment with the highest level of safeguarding

 

INFORMATION, ADVICE & GUIDANCE

SCL are nationally accredited for information, advice and guidance and we are trained in these areas to help you with your development.

Our Careers Leader oversees our careers information, advice & guidance strategy. Each learner will receive impartial and relevant guidance to support a successful transition onto their next step of their professional journey, wherever that may be.

Our Careers Leader is dedicated to supporting you to understand your career options and how to get there. This is underpinned by a programme of work experience and continual development of work-ready and life skills.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME

Our passionate team of Progress Coaches will deliver SCL’s Personal Development Programme, which will consist of a blend of group workshops and individual development meetings, aimed to add significant value to the progress and development of each learner.

The programme will include key themes such as morals and values, mental health awareness, healthy relationships, digital skills, and careers, and will form part of your timetable, with a scheduled 1.5 hours per week.

Your Personal Development Programme will allow you to stand out from the crowd. You will develop the behaviours, attitudes and values, inspired by sport, which are transferrable into the professional world, supporting you to receive the best possible opportunities for your future.

In addition, the Progress Coach team will support learners through an online ‘Essentials’ programme, aiming to grow their social awareness and develop them for success.

WORK EXPERIENCE

WORK EXPERIENCE

We understand the difference that experiencing the real world of work can make to your achievement on your course and your ability to make good decisions for your future which is why, as part of your education programme, you will take part in a minimum of 24 hours’ of work experience. 

During your programme, you will receive opportunities to experience a range of careers which link directly to your qualification and also careers outside your subject area which might interest you, link to a hobby or subject you enjoyed at school so you can explore the world of work and where your education at SCL could lead! 

Participating in sports coaching and development related work experience allows you to enhance your personal development and knowledge of the sports industry. 

You will gain insight into what it will be like to work in the sports industry, whilst developing your communication, IT, time management and team working skills. 

Through our partnerships, you will also have the opportunity to explore other career areas by participating in virtual or in-person work experience placements in industries outside of sport that you are interested in finding out more about.  

By showcasing your skills, knowledge and personality through work experience and direct engagement with employers, you will increase your opportunities to secure meaningful employment, an apprenticeship or university place upon completion of your course. 

Further careers information, advice and guidance and support securing an appropriate work experience placement will be provided through our Careers Leader, our team of Progress Coaches and your Tutor.

SPORTING ENRICHMENT

Alongside your BTEC/NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma, you will complete a minimum of 4 hours’ practical development each week, with the opportunity to take part in weekly competitive match fixtures.

Throughout your programme, you will complete a Player Performance Profile, which will include an evaluation of your playing attributes and game time and injury reviews.

We don’t just measure your progress based on your academic grades on your programme. This is about developing you as a player and as a person.

We will also measure your progress for Sporting Excellence and soft skills, such as communication, presentation, timekeeping and your ability to meet deadlines.

COMPETITIVE MATCH OPPORTUNITIES

During your programme, you will have opportunities to play in competitive matches and league systems to support your sporting development and put your training into practice. Competitive fixtures are scheduled to fit in with your sporting and education development programmes.

Selected SCL football centres* play in the Youth Development League, an FA sanctioned youth league that brings together ambitious footballing talent from across the country.

*Subject to venue

PROGRESSION ROUTES

EMPLOYMENT

Upon successful completion of your study programme, you will receive information, support and guidance on a variety of aspects to support you in securing meaningful employment. This will form the basis of your tutorial sessions, in addition to the academic monitoring and target setting.

 

SPORT

Studying with SCL provides you with an opportunity to play professional or non-professional sport, as well as a pathway to progress to a USA Scholarship. An American Scholarship will allow you to continue your studies whilst training and competing at a high level.

 

HIGHER EDUCATION (INCLUDING APPRENTICESHIPS)

Upon successful completion of your programme, you will be eligible to progress onto a relevant higher education degree programme.  Should you decide to combine further study with employment, you will be eligible for an apprenticeship within a relevant industry/sector job role.

 

HIGHER EDUCATION (INCLUDING APPRENTICESHIPS)

Upon successful completion of your programme, you will be eligible to progress onto a relevant higher education degree programme.  Should you decide to combine further study with employment, you will be eligible for an apprenticeship within a relevant industry/sector job role.

 

The world of sport is ever growing and the possibilities for a career in the industry are endless.

We believe that by using the power of sport, you can achieve anything. We give you every opportunity to reach your potential, you have the power to open the door to your future.

See where your future in sport could take you.

Progression Opportunities

EXPERIENCE EDUCATION

All our programmes use the power of sport to help you unlock your potential and are developed, and quality assured to set you on a path to a future career.

DEDICATED SUPPORT

Your dedicated tutor, progress coach and our support teams are dedicated to you and your development at SCL.

SPECIALIST ENGLISH & MATHS

A dedicated team of specialists will support you if you are required to work towards these qualifications as part of your programme.

THE SCL WAY

Our sport centred learning approach is based on the principles of sport, with a focus on how we engage and motivate you and develop you academically, mentally and physically.

INNOVATIVE LEARNING

We use Microsoft Teams to engage with learners, collaborate effectively and communicate efficiently.

YOUR WELLBEING

We maintain an ethos and culture where you feel safe, feel comfortable to talk and know you will be heard.

EXIT ROUTES

Our programmes are unique and are developed to put you on track to a career.

EMPLOYABILITY & WORK EXPERIENCE

We focus on giving you the experience and skills as part of your programme with SCL to secure future employment on your career journey.

INSPIRATIONAL CENTRES

Our education centres are based in real sports environments, across football, rugby and cricket so you educate and train in the world of sport.

We are there to support every step of the way.

95% of SCL learners feel confident about doing their course.