Religious Studies

Course summary

In a rapidly changing world, young people seek to find their place. By studying the triumvirate of religion, philosophy and ethics, students will be able to draw on subjects vital to understanding and flourishing in the modern world. RPE provides critical skills through its academic approach. The curriculum has a rigorous focus on the development of an analytical perspective on differing approaches and world views. The curriculum enhances skills such as producing concise and persuasive arguments, both in written and verbal contexts. RPE students will gain skills and confidence in discussing religious and philosophical distinctions, which will improve their ability to communicate and collaborate in the workplace and the world. Of the three components, Philosophy considers the fundamental questions of existence such as ‘Why are we here’ and ‘What is truth?’. Of all the world faiths, Hinduism is the oldest and it has influenced the beliefs and practices of all religions, including the birth of geometry and numeracy. It is a fascinating belief system and has had a vast cultural influence in the Indian subcontinent and beyond. The Religion element of this course considers these factors in depth. Of all the books in the Western world, none has affected culture more than the New Testament, as it has influenced the moral, political and cultural ethos of so many countries. The Religion element of this course considers these factors in depth. Ethics involves the study of language such as ‘good’ and ‘evil’, ‘right’ and ‘wrong’. It provides a study of different ethical approaches and most significantly an analysis of sexual ethics, medical ethics, and war – all of which are developing so quickly as to outstrip traditional ethical interpretations. To study A-Level RPE you do not need to be religious and nor do you have had to have completed Religious Studies at GCSE.