Psychology at Sedbergh: a conversation with Mr Paul Lucas

As one of Sedbergh’s most established and popular Sixth Form subjects, Psychology plays a powerful role in shaping how pupils think, question and understand the world around them. In this interview, Paul Lucas, Head of Psychology, reflects on what makes the subject so compelling, how it develops critical thinkers for life beyond school, and why it sits so naturally within a broader Sedbergh education.

What is it about psychology that you find most exciting to teach?

I have been teaching Psychology A level for 35 years and never fail to enjoy the range and variety of topics covered. One lesson you can be explaining the latest ideas on the biochemistry of anorexia, the next helping pupils apply memory research to how the police could improve eyewitness interviews.

As a relatively young discipline, Psychology is constantly changing, and the need to stay up to date with research is a challenge that I love. There is never a dull moment!

What does it mean, in your view, to think like a psychologist rather than simply learn psychological theories?

Thinking like a psychologist goes way beyond the classroom. Pupils will leave the course with the ability to apply the skills to whatever walk of life they follow (business, law, sport… it really does apply to everything!). A few years ago, I received a lovely email from an ex-pupil who was studying Medicine. She was the only one on her first-year course who had studied Psychology A level (alongside Biology and Chemistry). In a seminar on the efficacy of drug treatments, she said that she was the only one who had the skills to fully evaluate the treatments. This was based on her Psychology lessons, where we had looked at not just evidence for the effectiveness of drug treatments but also their appropriateness for different individuals. She came top of her medics class that year!

In what ways does life at Sedbergh give pupils the time and space to reflect on complex psychological ideas and apply them thoughtfully?

It is such a busy place; however, we always find time to pause and consider how a specific concept can be applied to everyday life. Many of our pupils are keen to apply psychological principles to their sporting experiences, for example arousal and performance levels. We have also considered how Working Memory can explain problems that pupils have in terms of classroom learning, as well as the application of depth of processing theory to how to revise effectively.

What does a Sedbergh education allow you to do as a psychology teacher that you might not be able to do elsewhere?

The Sedbergh School environment really helps to foster a sense of community and togetherness in terms of working with pupils to maximise potential. We offer ‘early morning Psychology’ sessions from 7:25–7:55 to help Year 13 pupils with exam technique. The extended day also allows for more opportunities to have one-to-one support sessions, for example helping pupils with their Psychology prep in the evening.

Why do you believe psychology is an increasingly important subject for current school leavers?

Psychology is an extraordinarily versatile subject that helps young people develop a variety of academic skills. Pupils emerge from the course with excellent numerical ability (data handling and interpretation), a strong understanding of the mechanics of scientific research design, an appreciation of philosophical debates (e.g. free will vs determinism), as well as the ability to develop coherent and well-supported arguments. Fundamentally, they will become fine critical thinkers with the ability to reason and analyse, including the enviable skill of scrutinising evidence to assess the strength of support for a theory or argument.

Psychology also fosters the soft skills that are so important in life. Understanding others and appreciating the worth of different viewpoints is crucial to success. Pupils develop a greater understanding of ethical concerns and the importance of balancing costs and benefits. Instead of a blanket response of “that is wrong!”, they consider the extent to which something is ‘ethically justified’. This is a vital life skill!

If a prospective parent asked you why psychology matters within a broader Sedbergh education, what would you say?

When pupils join Sedbergh, we all work to ensure that they have an enjoyable and rewarding experience and leave having maximised their potential both as academics and as young adults. The Sixth Form experience is a crucial part of this process. As one of the largest A level subjects, Psychology plays a key role in helping pupils become more aware of themselves and the needs and perspectives of others. Such increased self-awareness and empathy eases the transition to adulthood.

If you could change one misconception parents (or pupils) have about psychology, what would it be?

That Psychology is based on personal opinion and that there is no “right” answer. It is a rigorous subject that is evidence-led and teaches young people a variety of important skills for later life. Because of this, it is highly valued by universities and prospective employers.