Entry requirements
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- Six GCSEs 9-4 (or A*-C)
- Two from English, Maths OR Science
- Two at least grade 6
A Level Theology, Philosophy & Ethics
- Is there a God?
- Does Freewill exist?
- What is the purpose of life?
A Level Theology, Philosophy and Ethics explores some of the biggest questions that humans ask. These are just some of the questions that you will explore as you study some of the most influential thinkers of the last 2500 years. The subject offers a study and exploration of the different moral values and beliefs about the meaning and purpose of life from both religious and secular viewpoints. A study and exploration of the history of Christianity and the challenges that religion faces in the modern
world.
Exam board: EDUQAS
Components
COMPONENT 1: ETHICS
Percentage of total marks: 33.33%
Method of assessment: Written exam 2 hours
This is essentially the study of what makes us think certain actions are right or wrong. You will explore issues such as whether morality is absolute or if rules can be broken for the greater good. You also study a range of issues such as the use of animals for medical research, the justification of nuclear weapons and issues related to immigration.
COMPONENT 2: PHILOSOPHY
Percentage of total marks: 33.33%
Method of assessment: Written exam 2 hours
You will explore a range of arguments for and against the existence of God, considering the contribution of science and psychology to this debate as well as the problem of why God would allow evil to exist.
COMPONENT 3: CHRISTIANITY
Percentage of total marks: 33.33%
Method of assessment: Written exam 2 hours
You will study the origins, development and influence of Christian thought. You will also explore some of the challenges facing Christianity in the modern world, including the relationship between religion and science.
Skills
You will develop the ability to analyse a range of opposing ideas and concepts alongside the skills of critical evaluation and learn how to draw reasoned and persuasive conclusions. You will also develop your communications skills thorough class discussions and debate.
Careers/Destinations
Some students go on to study directly related degrees such as Theology or Philosophy. It is also an excellent complementary subject for any humanities degree such as Psychology, Sociology or History. Many students take this alongside science or maths and go onto to science degrees. Common careers that this subject prepares you for are law, teaching and journalism but it also develops skills that are equally valued in the medical professions.
Theology, Philosophy and Ethics
Do you have to have studied GCSE RE?
No. While some aspects of our course are introduced at GCSE RE it
is not a requirement. It will not disadvantage you if you have not
studied GCSE RE.
Where can this subject lead?
Some students go on to study directly related degrees such as
Theology or Philosophy. It is also an excellent complementary
subject for any humanities degree such as Psychology, Sociology or
History. Many students take this alongside science or maths and go
onto to science degrees. Common careers that this subject prepares
you for are law, teaching and journalism but it also develops skills
that are equally valued in the medical professions.
Do you have to be religious?
No. Loreto is a diverse college community and we have students in
Theology from a range of religious backgrounds as well as many
agnostic and atheist students. They all find themselves able to fully
engage with and enjoy the topics they study
What resources do you provide to support students?
You are given a bespoke booklet for every topic that covers
everything you need to learn, as well as advice on how to write
your essays. These are also available online along with a wide collection of revision videos that give and overview of topics and
essay plans. There are extra drop in support sessions every week
and an extensive range of revision lessons are provided in the run
up to the final exams. The most valuable resource is your teacher.
All our teachers are extremely passionate about the subject and are
fully committed to supporting you in your studies.
How do you support students with Additional Learning Support or Special Educational Needs?
We liaise closely with the Academic Support department to ensure
that we offer the best and most appropriate support for our
students. This could be anything from offering different coloured
handouts or larger font booklets to arranging exam access
arrangements such as extra time or rest breaks
How do you support high achieving students?
High achieving students are regularly provided with extra stretch
and challenge material as well as being provided with exemplar A*
essays. There is an extra weekly lesson specifically aimed at high
achieving students in the second year. We also provide special
revision seminars for this cohort of students, in the run up to the
final exams.
What extra-curricular activities do you offer?
We have a Philosophy Society that brings in speakers every few
weeks to further engage students in the subject and also promote
events from universities such as study days and essay competitions.
We also invite the author of the exam book into college each year
to deliver a bespoke range of revision conferences and seminars.
The biggest event we normally offer is an overseas trip to Greece
and Sicily on alternate years. This not only provides a fantastic cultural
experience for the students but also takes in some of the sites connected
to the Ancient Greek Philosophers and the Early Christian Church.