NPA Psychology (Schools)
***PLEASE NOTE - only pupils who will be at school during session 2026/27 can apply for this course***
The NPA Psychology (level 5) course develops candidates’ knowledge and understanding of psychological explanations for individual and social behaviour. Students will use appropriate psychological concepts, theories, research methods and evidence to investigate and explain human behaviour in a range of contexts.
Pupils will develop:
- Knowledge and understanding of psychological concepts, theories and terminology
- The ability to use thinking skills when explaining and applying knowledge and understanding of psychology
- Awareness of the role of research evidence in explaining human behaviour
- Basic investigation skills to select, organise and interpret information
- Awareness of ethical and scientific standards in psychological research
- Basic communication and numeracy skills in psychology
This course will run on Tuesday & Thursday 1.30pm - 3.30pm.
**This course will run subject to approval**
Content
The areas of study are:
- Research: This introduces candidates to the research process, research methods and ethics used in psychology
- Individual behaviour: This enables candidates to use psychology to explain individual behaviour
- Social behaviour: This explains how interaction with others shapes social behaviour
Career Paths
- Social Care Worker
- Early Years Practitioner
- Social Services (Children & Young People) Practitioner
- Community Learning & Development Worker
- Health Care Support Worker
- Mental Health Support Worker
Progression
- Can undertake further study through School College Partnership programme of NPA Social Services and Healthcare (level 6) Or Gateway to Nursing and Allied Professions (Level 6)
- Progression into Forth Valley College SCQF Level 6 Full Time Health and Social Care courses, in line with entry criteria
Entry requirements
- Pupils should have achieved 3 Nat 4 qualifications, including English or an English-related subject, or working towards them at Nat 5 level this current academic session.
More Info
Further advice for School College Programme and Foundation Apprenticeship applications:
• Please ensure you have an online account before starting your application
• If you created your account prior to March 2025, you will need to register a new account
• Before starting the application process, please ensure you already hold or are working towards the relevant entry qualifications required for the course you are applying for
• Ensure you use your own personal email address when creating your online account
• Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an automated email immediately
• If you do not receive an acknowledgement e-mail immediately, please check your SPAM/Junk folder
• Please include as much detail as possible in your personal statement such as; the reason you are applying, future career plans, relevant experience, hobbies and interests
• Disclosing support needs in your application will not affect your chances of being offered a place on a course at Forth Valley College
• If your application is successful, you will be invited to an information session
• If your application is unsuccessful, you should speak to a guidance teacher or SDS school liaison officer.
• If you are unable to attend the information session or wish to withdraw your application, please email the School Partnership team - school.partnership@forthvalley.ac.uk
Alloa Campus
18 August 2026
Level 5