Religious Studies

Course summary

RS discusses some of the most meaningful and complex questions in life: • Where does the universe come from? • How can you prove anything? • Has science replaced religion? • What do ‘out-of-body’ experiences tell us? • What is the mind? • Is there a soul? • How should we decide what are ‘good’ actions and ‘bad’ actions? • How has Christian Theology shaped the way Western society views human nature? • How should we behave sexually and what should inform that behaviour? • Is there a place for feminism within religion or is religion innately patriarchal? • Is the UK a Christian country and what does this mean in the C21st? RS at A level appeals to those who are interested in analysing arguments, evaluating different points of view and sustaining a critical line of argument. It will also appeal to those who consider deep and meaningful questions and enjoy discussing different perspectives, including those of leading philosophers and academics. RS will develop skills of research, interpretation and critical thinking as well as provide opportunities to develop key skills. The department has a sixth-form interfaith discussion group led by Fr Labran where elements of the course can be discussed and debated in a more informal setting. We also take students to a couple of A Level conferences throughout the course and to public lectures at venues such as St Paul’s Cathedral. For example, in a previous year, we went to hear Rowan Williams speak about the person of Jesus. As part of our study of secularism, students visit a local foodbank and church centre where they can learn about a variety of social action projects run by a faith community