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Introduction to A Level Philosophy, Religion and Ethics

A Level Philosophy, Religion and Ethics at Sandy Secondary School is an intellectually stimulating programme that challenges students to explore some of the deepest questions about existence, morality, and belief. Examined by AQA (Religious Studies — 7062), this course develops the ability to analyse, critique, and evaluate complex arguments, producing articulate and academically confident individuals.

The course is divided into two substantial components. Component 1 covers Philosophy of Religion and Ethics, exploring arguments for the existence of God, evil and suffering, religious experience, religious language, miracles, and self and life after death, alongside ethical theories including Bentham and Kant, issues of human and animal life and death, meta ethics, free will, moral responsibility, and conscience.

Component 2 focuses on the Study of Christianity and Dialogues, examining sources of wisdom and authority, the nature of God, self, death and the afterlife, good conduct and key moral principles, expression of religious identity, religion and gender, sexuality, science, secularisation, and religious pluralism. Students also engage with dialogues between philosophy of religion and religion itself.

Beth Selonke
Staff

Beth Selonke

Curriculum Leader PRS

Assessment Structure

Component Percentage Duration Marks Content Focus
Component 1: Philosophy of Religion and Ethics 50% 3 hours 100 Section A: Philosophy of Religion (arguments for God, evil, religious experience, language, miracles, self and afterlife). Section B: Ethics (ethical theories, human/animal life and death, meta ethics, free will, conscience, Bentham and Kant)
Component 2: Study of Christianity and Dialogues 50% 3 hours 100 Sources of wisdom, God, self/death/afterlife, moral principles, religious identity, gender/sexuality, science, secularisation, pluralism, and dialogues between philosophy and religion
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Careers and Progression

A Level Philosophy, Religion and Ethics is highly regarded by both higher education institutions and employers. The skills developed — analysis, critiquing, and evaluation — are among the most transferable and valued across every profession. A successful student will be able to read widely, make sense of complex issues and concepts, and form original ideas through debate and discussion.

The course can lead to reading Philosophy, Theology, Law, Sociology, Politics, History, Psychology, and Economics at higher education. Career pathways include Broadcasting, Journalism, Education, Law, Counselling, Medicine, Social Work, and Business, to name just a few of the many options available.

  • Philosophy and Theology
  • Law and Politics
  • Journalism and Broadcasting
  • Education and Counselling
  • Medicine and Social Work
  • Psychology and Sociology
  • Business and Economics

I chose to do Philosophy & Ethics at A level because it is an intellectually stimulating subject and I enjoyed it and did well in it at GCSE.

The subject inspires deeper thinking and encourages you to question your own beliefs and values on topical issues.

You develop lots of skills, such as essay writing, presenting, how to structure an argument and how to successfully have a debate. This is quite challenging, but very enjoyable.

You get to discuss and argue relevant ethical issues.

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Begin Your A Level Philosophy, Religion and Ethics Journey

Ready to explore the deepest questions about existence, morality, and belief? Our A Level Philosophy, Religion and Ethics programme at Sandy Secondary School develops powerful analytical and evaluative skills valued by top universities and employers. Speak with Ms B Selonke to discover your potential.

Contact the PRE Department