Around the Secondary Classes
Year 10 Introduction to Psychology and Sociology
Exploring the Brain and Breaking the Stigma
This term, Year 10 students in Introduction to Psychology and Sociology have been exploring neuropsychology. From mapping the brain's intricate structure to understanding how injury, concussion, and mental illness affect the way we think and feel, students have been challenged to understand the extraordinary complexity of the human brain.
Understanding the Brain
Our unit began with an exploration of the brain's structure and function. Students examined key regions such as the frontal lobe, hippocampus, cerebellum, and brainstem, learning how each area governs everything from memory and emotion to movement and survival.
Brain Injury and Concussion
Students also studied how brain injuries occur and how clinicians can identify which region of the brain may have been affected based on a patient's symptoms. By applying their knowledge of brain structure and function, students practised analysing real world case studies. We also explored the mechanics and consequences of concussion, including its increasing relevance in sport and everyday life.
Mental Illness - From Understanding to Action
Perhaps the most meaningful part of the unit has been our focus on mental illness. Students have worked to understand the neurological and social dimensions of conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. Students were asked to channel their learning into something powerful: collaborative campaigns designed to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Beyond the Label by Brooklynn Taylor and Olivia Ims (Year 10)
One example of our class campaigns is Beyond the Label, created by students Brooklynn Taylor and Olivia Ims. Their campaign targets the stigma surrounding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in teenagers, with the goal of increasing awareness and encouraging open, honest conversations about this often misunderstood condition.
Through their website (built for this project), Brooklynn and Olivia challenge dismissive language and advocate for PTSD to be recognised as the serious and legitimate "invisible disability" it is. Their site includes dedicated pages on what PTSD is, the current state of stigma, the impact of the words we use, real personal stories, infographics, and even a merchandise store, All designed to create a more empathetic and supportive environment for young people.
The quality and genuine care evident in our student campaigns like Beyond the Label is a testament to the empathy and curiosity Year 10 students have brought to this unit and project. Mental health stigma remains one of the most significant barriers to people seeking help, and it is inspiring to see our students taking real steps to change that.
Ms Farron Boxall - Subject Teacher