A-Level Theology, Philosophy & Ethics
What do I need before starting this course?
There is no need to have a GCSE in this subject, or to have any particular faith. All you need is a willingness to read and research widely, a mind that is interested in finding out more about the world, and a desire to develop articulacy in expressing your views and ideas.
What will I learn?
The modules we study at A Level, are Philosophy of Religion, Religious Ethics and New Testament Studies. You will develop a wide range of skills as you research, analyse, debate and craft responses to a fascinating selection of topics. You will ultimately learn about yourself as well, as you uncover the reasons behind your own thinking and decision making processes. This course will prepare you for university degrees such as Medicine, Law, Business, English and many others. More importantly, it will prepare you to take a considered approach to life’s big questions.
In Philosophy students consider the foundations of modern philosophy, classical proofs for the existence of God, religious experience as a basis for belief, the problem of evil, the works of key scholars (some of whom you will have the opportunity to meet) and whether or not it is possible to speak meaningfully about God.
In the Ethics course students explore some of the most influential approaches to morality and apply them to a range of contemporary topics such as the environment, war and peace, sexual and medical ethics.
In the New Testament paper, students consider the social, historical and religious context of the New Testament, the person of Jesus and ways of interpreting texts and scripture. This course gives students a wide range of critical skills that will stand them in good stead as they consider further education.
In all of these areas of study students are encouraged to engage creatively with the work of the thinkers on the syllabus and, as well as mastering the detail, to think independently in the light of it. To this end classroom debate is a regular feature of our teaching and learning, with students expected to carry out research outside the classroom in preparation for debate and discussion.
How is this course assessed?
There is no coursework in this subject. You will take 3 exams at the end of Year 13.