A Little Extra Help Can Make a Big Difference: Introducing Our A-Level Psychology Workshops
A Little Extra Help Can Make a Big Difference: Introducing Our A-Level Psychology Workshops
Studying A-Level Psychology can be fascinating, challenging and, at times, a little overwhelming. There is a great deal to learn, from the complexities of human behaviour to research methods, statistical testing and the demands of examination questions. Even students who understand the subject well can find themselves wondering how to turn their knowledge into the answers examiners are looking for.
At Curborough Academy for Social Sciences (CASS), we believe that learning should be supportive, engaging and accessible. We also recognise that not every student needs, or can afford, regular one-to-one tuition. Sometimes, what makes the biggest difference is an opportunity to revisit a tricky topic, ask a question that has been bothering you or spend a little time practising a particular exam skill with an experienced teacher.
That is the thinking behind our new A-Level Psychology Workshops.
What are the A-Level Psychology Workshops?
Our workshops are friendly, live online small-group sessions designed to provide additional support for students studying A-Level Psychology.
Rather than offering another full course or simply repeating classroom teaching, each workshop focuses on a particular aspect of the subject that students often find challenging. This might involve understanding how to approach a 16-mark essay, choosing the correct statistical test, interpreting research findings or improving the evaluation skills needed to achieve higher marks.
Students will have opportunities to ask questions, contribute to discussions and work through examples together. We know that some students are naturally confident about speaking up, while others prefer to listen and take things in at their own pace. Both approaches are welcome.
The sessions are practical and interactive, with a focus on helping students understand not just what they need to know, but how to apply that knowledge effectively in their examinations.
Why small groups?
Having taught Psychology for many years, I know how often students struggle with similar issues, even when they think they are the only person finding something difficult. A small-group workshop allows students to learn from one another's questions and ideas, as well as from the teacher.
It also means that we can offer specialist support at a considerably lower cost per student than individual tuition.
I feel strongly that additional educational support should not be something available only to families who can afford an expensive private tutor. While providing high-quality teaching inevitably involves costs, there are ways of making that support more manageable. Small-group workshops are one way we can do this without losing the personal, interactive approach that I believe makes such a difference to learning.
Building confidence, not just exam marks
Of course, we want students to do well in their examinations. Understanding assessment objectives, applying knowledge accurately and developing effective evaluation skills are all important.
However, there is something else that matters just as much: confidence.
Students can sometimes become so concerned about getting an answer wrong that they stop asking questions or convince themselves that they simply aren't good at a subject. I want our workshops to offer a different experience, where questions are welcomed, mistakes are part of learning and students leave feeling a little more capable than when they arrived.
Psychology is a wonderful subject because it encourages us to question assumptions, examine evidence and think critically about human behaviour. I would like our workshops to preserve some of that curiosity and enjoyment, even as we prepare students for the demands of their examinations.
Come and join us
Our A-Level Psychology Workshops are designed for students who would benefit from a little extra support, whether that's improving their exam technique, tackling a difficult topic or simply feeling more confident in their understanding of Psychology.
Each live online workshop focuses on a particular topic or skill, allowing students to choose the sessions that are most useful to them. Our aim is to provide friendly, practical and affordable support in a setting where everyone feels comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas and learning together.
To find out more about our upcoming A-Level Psychology Workshops, visit www.curboroughacademy.uk.
We look forward to welcoming you!