Religious Studies

A Level Philosophy and Ethics (Religious Studies) is an exciting and vibrant subject with plenty of opportunity for lively discussion and debate.

In a typical Sixth Form class, the students will have many varying ideas about religion; you certainly do not need to have a religious faith to gain a great deal from the course! The main thing is to have an open mind and a real interest in pursuing philosophical questions.

A pleasing number take the subject for A or AS Level and in recent years quite a number of pupils have gone on to study Theology or Philosophy at University. A few very brave former students now teach Religious Studies in schools across the country! However, there are other options in addition to being an RS teacher or a Vicar! A study of Philosophy and Ethics helps to train the mind; you will become good at analyzing complex ideas and assessing good and bad arguments. These are invaluable skills for all sorts of courses and careers. Recent Sixth Formers have obtained places on a wide variety of courses at University, including Oxbridge. The philosophical aspects of the course would offer excellent preparation if you are interested in studying Philosophy at University.

We attend a number of conferences and in recent years have heard some of the leading philosophers in the country. This is an ideal time to be studying the subject given all the debate surrounding Richard Dawkins and 'The God Delusion'.

The Sixth Form teachers are Mr Griffiths, the Head of Sixth Form (Pastoral) and Mr Webster, the Head of Department and School Chaplain.

Sixth Form Theologians take a leading part in the Sixth Form Philosophy Society and also contribute to the Friday Philosophers.