V Level Education, A Level Sociology & A Level Psychology
Subject Area
Early Years
Student Type
Students aged 16-18
Study Mode
Full Time
Course Type
What is the course about?
This study programme combines A Level Psychology, A Level Sociology and V Level Education giving a strong foundation in understanding human behaviour, social relationships, development, health and care practice.
A Level Psychology focuses on how people think, feel and behave; exploring memory, social influence, attachment, mental health and scientific research methods.
A Level Sociology is the study of society, social relationships and human behaviour. It examines how people interact with one another and how social institutions influence people's lives.
V Level Education enables students to develop and apply knowledge, understanding and skills in education practice. It supports students to plan effective and inclusive learning and evaluate assessment information across a range of education stages, to ensure all students are able to maximise their learning.
Why should I choose the course?
This combined pathway offers:
- An engaging introduction to psychology, health, wellbeing and professional care practice.
- Skills valued by employers and universities, including critical analysis, communication, research, empathy and problem-solving.
- Applied, practical learning shaped by sector experts and aligned with real health and care environments. The content provides a broad level 3 foundation that supports progression to further study and apprenticeships.
This route is ideal for students interested in people-focused careers where understanding behaviour, development and care are central.
What will I learn?
A Level Psychology
You will explore:
- Social influence and obedience
- Memory and forgetting
- Attachment and early relationships
- Approaches in psychology (biological, cognitive, behaviourist)
- Mental health conditions (phobias, depression, OCD)
- Research methods and data analysis
A Level Sociology
You will explore:
- Socialisation, culture and identity
- Social differentiation, power and stratification
- Sociological theories, perspectives and methods
V Level Education
You will study:
- The use of pedagogical approaches and the theories that underpin them
- The concept of setting specific learning goals and success criteria for a learning session
- The principles of inclusion within the education and early years sector
- The concept of reflective practice
Skills gained:
- Critical thinking
- Problem solving and academic writing
- Communication & interpersonal skills
- Working with vulnerable people
- Understanding health inequalities
- Academic and research skills
- Decision‑making in care and education settings
- Planning skills to develop well-structured and inclusive learning sessions which promote learning for all
What will the course lead on to?
Possible higher education degree routes include:
- Psychology
- Nursing (Adult, Child, Mental Health, Learning Disability)
- Social Work
- Health & Social Care
- Counselling
- Policing & Criminology
- Education & Teaching
- Sociology
- Early Years/ primary/ secondary teaching
- Early childhood studies
Career opportunities:
- Healthcare support roles
- Mental health support
- Community care work
- Youth & family support
- Research assistant roles
- Classroom or learning support roles
- Teaching assistant
Are there any links with industry and university?
Throughout the year, we welcome a variety of guest speakers from industry, giving you direct insight into the careers you may want to pursue and the skills employers are looking for.
We also have strong partnerships with universities, and you’ll have the chance to visit several campuses to take part in taster sessions — helping you explore your options and prepare confidently for your next steps in higher education.
What support is available?
You will be allocated a progress coach who will provide you with support to help you succeed on your study programme and progress on to your chosen career or progression path. We have a team of staff dedicated to providing learning support if required, as well as a Welfare Team that is on hand to offer guidance, support and help when needed.Â
Additionally, eligible students can access a wide range of finance and funding support to help them during their time at college.
Why should I choose to study the course at Warrington & Vale Royal College?
You will benefit from:
- Experienced tutors from psychology, education, early years and health and care sectors.
- Strong employer and university links
- A supportive, inclusive learning environment
- Facilities which include realistic care environments and digital resources
- High academic standards and tailored pastoral support
What are the entry requirements?
You will need a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths, or you will have achieved a minimum grade merit in a level 2 course and have GCSE English and maths at grade 4 or above.
Careers Information
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