A fascinating virtual event for students

Year 12 Psychology students attended an online Psychology in Action event yesterday where they were able join a series of fascinating talks.

The day began with author and broadcaster Claudia Hammond discussing ‘The Art of Rest – why we should start taking rest seriously’. Further sessions included Kelly Bristow talking about exam success; Danny Nobus from Brunel University discussing what psychology, psychiatry and psychotherapy contributes to our understanding of the human mind; sports psychologist Jonathan Smith spoke about preparing athletes for the delayed Tokyo Games; Gemma Witcomb from Loughborough University delivered a session titled ‘Child psychology and gender identity’; and Peter Lovatt ended the day-long event by discussing the link between dancing and the brain.

Psychology is delivered at Worth at A Level and through the International Baccalaureate.

Student testimony

One of our students, Adaeze, wrote this about the event:

“Today, as a Sixth Form Psychology student I got the opportunity to participate in the Psychology in Action event. Despite the fact that travel to the actual venue was not possible, the day was full of real life, engaging talks, polls and discussions with countless opportunities for student participation.

“One particular talk which stood out for me was the ‘Preparing athletes for the (delayed) Tokyo Games’ by Jonathan Smith, a Sports Psychologist. As an athlete myself, I found it particularly intriguing to learn about the things which go on behind the scenes. For example, how the logical and emotional parts of the brain influence the way athletes behave in particular times of stress, and how athletes are psychologically prepared for crucial events such as the Olympics. Both of these play a role in determining the outcome in life-changing situations, such as the Olympic Games, which athletes have trained their whole lives for and where the difference between winning a gold and silver medal could be as miniature as 0.11 seconds.

“Jonathan spoke about how, as humans who face obstacles in everyday life, we can find ‘opportunity in ambiguity’. He explained the importance of a ‘growth mindset’ over a ‘fixed mindset’ and that in order to act sensibly in times of despair or anxiety we must evaluate our current situation and ask ourselves “Why, how and what next?” before we proceed to make a reasoned decision, allowing us to move forward. An example may be finding opportunity for self-improvement during these months of uncertainty and doubtfulness.”

For more about the Sixth Form at Worth click here.