Religion, Philosophy and Ethics
The study of RPE at The Swan prepares you for every possible pathway. This course is not simply academic; it deals with fundamental questions that affect our perception of reality and the way we live our lives.
RPE students will consider questions which have mystified the great thinkers throughout time such as: does God exist? How can we determine what is good and what is evil? Is there a connection between the mind, body and soul? And how does religion interact with a secular society?
You will be taught how to write rigorous and analytical essays drawing on a wide range of key philosophical ideas, ethical theories, and theological positions, developing your ability to reason, and deploy a range of material to demonstrate understanding and justifications with the support of a team of experienced RPE teachers.
Entry Requirements
6 Religious Education GCSE OR 6 English Language or Literature GCSE
Specification
Eduqas Religious Studies (A120PD)
Course Outline (Module, Weighting, Topics Etc)
Component 1: Buddhism (33% of A Level, 2h exam)
Themes within this component:
- Religious figures and sacred texts
- Religious concepts and religious life
- Significant social and historical developments in religious thought
- Religious practices and religious identity
Component 2: Philosophy of Religion (33% of A Level, 2h exam)
Themes within this component:
- Arguments for the existence of God
- Challenges to religious belief
- Religious experience
- Religious language
Component 3: Religion and Ethics (33% 2h exam)
Themes within this component:
- Ethical thought
- Deontological ethics
- Teleological ethics
- Determinism and free will
