Religion, Ethics and Philosophy

What type of student should study this course?

Whether you are religious, spiritual, or an atheist, this course will cultivate and develop your thinking and evaluative skills If you are interested in understanding the deep spiritual beliefs of Christianity and Islam, or debating political and social issues such as war, homosexuality, or God’s existence then this might be the right course for you.

What does the course cover?

The course is interesting and stimulating for all students, whether of a religious background or of no religious affiliation. It will help you to develop evaluative and communication skills, learning how to build effective arguments and use your knowledge and understanding to problem-solve. In turn, this will enable engagement with the many challenging questions and ethical debates that the course entails

We study Christian and Islamic beliefs, teachings and practices, as well as four key philosophical and ethical themes: Peace and Conflict, Crime and Punishment, Relationships and Life Issues (e.g. abortion, euthanasia and life after death).

What skills do you develop as part of this course?

Evaluation is key in Religion, Ethics & Philosophy. This course will develop your ability to evaluate, debate, express clear arguments and perspectives. Be prepared to challenge yourself and others as this course will push you to think outside the box! We also develop empathy and understanding for each other This course is for those who seek to have a wider cultural understanding of the world in which they live.

Assessment Structure and components?

The course is 100% examination based and is presented in a two-paper format.

Paper One - the beliefs and practices of two world religions. Paper Two - the for four philosophical and ethical themes.

Both written examinations are sat in the summer examination period at the end of Year 11.

Next Steps with this GCSE?

This course is an excellent foundation for studying Philosophy and Ethics at A Level. University courses and jobs that directly link to the Religious Studies GCSE can range from careers in Medicine, Law, Journalism, Politics, Education – really any career that requires a wider understanding of the world we live in, rational thought and exceptional communication skills