Our A-level psychology learners recently enjoyed a series of thrilling talks at Friend’s House Auditorium in Central London. With talks covering topics like pseudoscience, dance psychology, magic, and hypnosis the learners gained insight into the various paths down which psychology can lead.  

The day began with talks from Phil Banyard, (professor at Nottingham Trent), Mike Cardwell (Senior Lecturer at Bath University, former chief examiner AQA), Clara Flanagan, a widely published author of A-level psychology texts. These speakers brought vital topics from the curriculum to life with real life scenarios and experiences. As well as demonstrating how topics on the A-level psychology course are used in real life, these talks provided learners with vital exam technique.  

Dance Psychologist, Dr Lucie Clements explored our perception of creativity and science by engaging the audience in a series of dance experiments. Oliver Meech and Andrew Newton concluded the event by demonstrating psychology’s role in magic and hypnosis.  

Year 12 learner Mahia shared, "I enjoyed Clara’s talk because it helped me better understand some of the topics on my course. My favourite talk was from the Dance Psychologist because I’ve never seen psychology explored in that way before".  

Learners were taught vital topics related to their A-level course from leading lecturers in the field, whilst gaining insight into the range of industries that psychology is used in. It was not only a day filled with valuable teaching, but an engaging exploration of some of the many paths within psychology.