Course information
Religious Studies
Highdown School and Sixth Form Centre - Reading
01189015800
Surley Row, Emmer Green, Reading, RG4 8LR
Course summary

This course requires you to have an enquiring mind, an interest and a desire to examine some of the biggest questions in the universe! You do not need a religious belief (though it is fine if you do have one). You will need to be able to read quite challenging texts and write extended essays, take notes, and most importantly be confident to discuss and examine a range of different issues, such as whether there is a God, how to treat others and the relevance of religion in the 21st Century. YEAR 12 TOPICS INCLUDE: ▪ The nature of God in Christianity ▪ Religious morals ▪ Arguments for and against the existence of God ▪ The problem of evil ▪ Religious experiences, such as mysticism ▪ Christian festivals and ceremonies ▪ Scientific challenges to religious belief ▪ Ethical theories including; – Utilitarianism – Natural Law – Situation Ethics – Divine Command Theory YEAR 13 TOPICS INCLUDE: ▪ Religious Language ▪ The Psychology of religious belief ▪ Atheism and challenges to faith ▪ Meta-ethics and understanding ethical language ▪ Determination and Free Will ▪ The authority of the Bible ▪ Feminist theology ▪ Religious experiences, such as miracles ▪ Religious responses to poverty and injustice Post 18 opportunities Religious Studies is widely accepted as an entry qualification for further and higher education courses. Therefore, it is particularly helpful for study in any of the Arts and Sciences, with focus on Humanities, Philosophy, Law, Medicine, Healthcare, Social Work, Psychology, Policing and many more. Studying this course will develop a wide range of skills, including those essential for enquiry, interpretation, critical thinking, evaluation and communication. It is ideal for developing the academic skills needed for degree study or work that includes an Ethical aspect, such as the Law or the Armed Forces.

Entry requirements

4+ in English

How you'll be assessed

Students will study 3 components; (i) Christianity, (ii) Philosophy and (iii) Ethics. Each component is assessed through a 2-hour written exam at the end of Y13.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth East
Local AuthorityReading
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeMixed
AddressSurley Row, Emmer Green, Reading, RG4 8LR