Religious Studies

Course summary

A Level Religious Studies asks fundamental, controversial and challenging questions about the issues we grapple with throughout our lives. Does God really exist, and if so, why do we suffer? Can we reconcile religion and science or are they opposed? How do we decide what is right and wrong? When is war acceptable, if ever? These issues, although studied at GCSE, will be explored in far more depth - offering students the chance to really challenge their and others' preconceptions. In addition, we now offer a paper in Buddhism, allowing students to learn about a religion fundamentally different to Christianity and Islam in many ways. Theology is an ancient intellectual discipline, but no one can doubt the momentous social significance of religion around the world today. Religious Studies at A level provides an understanding of the intellectual underpinning of religious traditions, and of the social and cultural contexts for religious belief and practice. Engaging fully with the questions that the scrutiny of religions elicit will require you to become something of an historian and a philosopher, a textual and literary critic, and a linguist. To be able to employ these disciplines effectively will not only make you a scholar of religion but equip you to embark on a wide range of careers. There is no requirement to be religious or argue in favour of religion - ardent atheists are just as welcome as passionate theists. Other skills developed 'The A Level in Religious Studies equips students to engage at a deep level with fundamental philosophical and ethical questions. Develop an interest in and enthusiasm for a rigorous study of religion and its role in society. Deconstruct arguments and critically analyse scholar's positions. Approach debates and controversial topics in an enquiring, respectful and empathetic way. The RS A Level prepares students for a variety of pathways into Higher Education and the workplace, but it also prepares them for life in a globalising world. Career value The subject is good preparation for a career in education (including post-graduate research and teaching), journalism, media, publishing, law, the civil service, social work, banking, management consultancy, accountancy, personnel mangement, teaching, the police force and religious vocations. Religious Studies produces students who have an enquiring mind, an appreciation of different viewpoints, and an ability to come to clear, balanced decisions. These skills are highly valued by employers. A student’s view "The course makes you question things you have never thought about before." "The teachers are extremely helpful and provide as many resources as they can to aid in your understanding." “Religious Studies at A Level has a very positive atmosphere, as the class is on a very one-to-one basis. The teachers treat you as though you are an individual, which makes it very easy to go to them and ask for help.