Religious Education
A Level
At AS/A2 level candidates will study two subject areas: Religious Ethics and Philosophy of Religion. These are brought together at the end of the course with a synoptic paper, which examines elements of both subjects. The first year of study leads to an AS qualification in both subject areas. This can then be taken to a full A Level in the second year.
Religious Ethics involves studying the answers of scholars to key questions, such as: "What is Good?"; "What is it to lead a good life?"; "How can we apply ethical theory to everyday life?"; "Is anything truly right or wrong?" These and many other topical and relevant questions are explored with academic rigour.
Philosophy of Religion is involved in asking some of the fundamental questions in human existence: "Is there a God?"; "If there is a God, why do bad things happen?"; "Are there any good reasons offered by atheists against God's existence?" This course of study involves examining the works of some of the greatest thinkers on a challenging and stimulating topic.
The synoptic paper will give students the opportunity to explore links between the two topics studied and to produce an extended piece of work.
It is not necessary to have done Religious Studies at GCSE in order to take this course. A candidate must, however, have good written English, demonstrated by at least a grade B in GCSE, an open mind and a lively interest in topical issues. This course does not require a person to have a religious faith. Religious Studies is accepted for a wide range of university courses and complements all Humanities AS and A Levels.
Assessment
At key stage 5 the students are tested against the marking scheme criteria set by the exam boards.