The Science of Self: Inside the CGA’s Psychology Class

At Crimson Global Academy (CGA), we don’t just teach subjects; we help students understand the world and their place in it. Perhaps no subject captures this mission better than Psychology.

Here’s a guide to our Psychology classes with insights from our Head of Student Support and Psychology teacher, Mrs Beth Haresnape, based in the UK. Beth bridges the gap between academic rigour and emotional well-being, helping students unlock the secrets of the human mind.

Why Study Psychology? Beyond the Lightbulb Moments

For Beth, teaching Psychology is about more than just memorising theories; it’s about providing students with a toolkit for life.

Psychology enables students to better understand themselves and the behaviour of others. Every theory we learn about in psychology is applied, and this gives so many lightbulb moments as my students discover answers to important questions.

Theory Meets Reality: Hands-on Learning

In Beth’s classroom, Psychology isn't an abstract concept. Students are encouraged to apply what they learn to the world around them.

We look at scenarios in groups or individually, where students try to explain the behaviour, ideally from different psychological approaches. Everyday experiences and events are also shared, and we practice applying psychological concepts to explain why that may have happened - all the way from conflict and crime to why our pets and siblings do the things they do!

The CGA Psychology Club

One of the most vibrant parts of the community is the Psychology Club. This student-led space allows learners to present on niche interests and engage with the wider world of psychology.

Debunking the Myths

Beth is quick to correct a common misconception: that Psychology is a soft or abstract subject where people just sit around talking about dreams.

A misconception that is luckily getting less common is that Psychology is an abstract humanities-based subject where we talk about our dreams, and there are no straight answers. We do actually study dreaming, but in the context of sleep and by looking at both scientific, biological and psychodynamic perspectives, both of which are evidence-based. Modern Psychology is a science that requires high levels of both numeracy and literacy, so it's important to be confident with both Maths and extended writing in academic English before starting the course.

Psychology Pathways at CGA: From Foundation to Advanced Research

To help parents and students navigate our offerings, we have mapped out our Psychology and Wellbeing pathways. Whether your child is just starting their journey at age 12 or preparing for university at 18, there is a tailored curriculum available.

Career Pathways: Social Work, Research and Lecturing, Human Resources, Counselling, Psychotherapy, Clinical Psychology, Neuroscience, Sports & Performance Psychology, Health Psychology

A Closer Look at Our Courses

1. The Foundation: Pre-IG Learning for Life

Before diving into clinical theories, younger students (ages 12-14) engage in CGA’s bespoke Learning for Life course, which is a tailored version of the British PSHE (Personal, Social, Health & Economic education) curriculum for our international, online student body, designed to provide the knowledge and skills needed to lead confident, healthy lives in a complex world.

2. The Introduction: GCSE Psychology

This engaging course introduces students to the core "pillars" of psychology: Developmental, Cognitive, Clinical, Biological, and Social. A significant portion of the course focuses on research methods, requiring students to use arithmetic and data analysis to understand human behaviour.

• Exam Info: Two externally assessed papers (only available at exam centres in European & Middle East time zones)

3. The Deep Dive: International A-Level Psychology

Designed for students aged 16-18, the A-Level delves deeper into the core approaches and extends into practical research and advanced applications. It is broken into AS (Advanced Subsidiary) and A2 levels, offering a rigorous scientific foundation that is highly respected by global universities.

• Exam Info: A comprehensive 4-unit structure with external assessments offered twice a year (January and May/June).

4. Real-World Application: US Diploma Health Psychology

For students looking for project-based learning, this course uses the biopsychosocial model to explore the relationship between stress, wellness, and chronic health issues. Students develop digital portfolios that capture their unique talent and vision.

Ready to Start Your Journey into the Human Mind?

Beth’s advice for students considering the subject is straightforward: Come with an open mind and a strong work ethic.

Be prepared to work hard - there is a lot of content to remember and academic writing skills to develop, but if you are willing to engage in discussion, offer your opinion and be open to other perspectives, you will have a lot of fun learning.

Don’t just wonder why the world works the way it does; come and discover the answers with us. Speak with an Admissions Advisor today to find the right Psychology pathway for you or your child.