On Monday 14 March, a group of 30 Year 12 Psychology pupils spent the day in London, taking a step away from the classroom to participate in a conference on a plethora of topics covered throughout the A Level. Held by the A Level textbook writers and examiners Mike Cardwell, Mike Griffin and Jean-Marc Lawton, the students were able to benefit from the expert experience on areas of social psychology, memory, attachment and bio psychology. The Shiplake pupils joined students from other schools from across the country to enjoy the conference.
Head of Psychology Mr Richard Ebbage accompanied the trip to London, along with Mr Adam Moffatt. Along with talks on the various subject areas, which proved highly insightful, the course included exam techniques, revision tips and advice and how to organise time approaching the exam season. The Sixth Formers found the discussions highly interesting, and the advice imparted will prove invaluable when it comes to taking exams in the subject; Jack Peck commented that ‘it was a really fun and interesting day. I really think that I’m going to be able to use most of what we heard today, in class!’
Students were also provided with revision materials, and spent time answering exam style questions on the day, as well as having content to take with them to tackle at home and back in the classroom. The conference, although lengthy, was really helpful. Taking the subjects out of the classroom and discussing them with the writers and examiners helped pupils understand different aspects of the course. Mr Ebbage commented that ‘it was a good way to gain insight and a different perspective on these topics; we talk about them all day in class, but escaping the classroom setting was really beneficial.’
