Studying diverse philosophical, religious and ethical ideas helps pupils to develop empathy and respect, and shapes their understanding of the world around them.
Philosophy and Theology is a popular subject based around two foundational disciplines that challenge pupils to think deeply about fundamental questions. Pupils are equipped with critical thinking skills, fostering an ability to analyse and evaluate complex ideas and arguments that shape the future of the world around them.
This process starts in the Fourth Form with a wide-ranging, thought-provoking course, which begins to nurture pupils’ intellectual curiosity. Pupils learn to challenge and question their ideas, and much of their class time is devoted to discussion and debate.
At GCSE, the Religious Studies course follows themes in philosophy and ethics, focusing on Christianity and Islam. Pupils explore a range of global issues and learn to formulate convincing arguments. Classroom studies are supplemented by trips to mosques and pilgrimage sites, and pupils particularly relish the discursive nature of the course.
The exam results achieved in recent years have been superb.
The Sixth Form course is very popular. The emphasis here is on developing the ability to evaluate and challenge a great variety of ideas, enabling pupils to formulate opinions on issues that have been debated for centuries, yet remain prominent today. The breadth of the course allows pupils to pursue their personal areas of interest. By studying the founding fathers of philosophy, our pupils come away with a vast and comprehensive understanding of intellectual and religious thought. This rigorous academic training hones students' analytical, evaluative, and research skills, preparing them for higher education and beyond.
The department runs a popular university enrichment course alongside the Sixth Form curriculum. As a result, a significant number of pupils choose to study a related course at degree level. We offer a stimulating range of seminars and lectures where pupils can hear from, and explore the ideas of, pioneers in their fields.