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Philosophy and Ethics

The AS and A2 GCE RE courses require candidates to study two areas: Philosophy and Ethics. During the course you will learn the key concepts, ideas and theories within these areas of study. Ethics and the Philosophy of Religion invites you to ask questions, to challenge your views and the view of others, to agree, disagree, think, debate, discuss and to enquire.

6th form students

The topics covered at GCE builds on many of the units studied at GCSE. You will learn about the contribution of significant people, traditions or movements to philosophy. You will also learn about major ethical theories and how they are used by people to justify the decisions they make in areas such as abortion, euthanasia, war, sex etc.

AS Level

Unit 1: Philosophy of Religion 1

You will be introduced to philosophical thinking, using the examples of Plato and Aristotle. ‘The un-philosophical mind is like a prisoner in a cave…’ (Plato) This module explores whether it is possible to prove the existence of GOD using arguments from people like St Thomas Aquinas and some of the main challenges to religious belief including the problem of evil and suffering, the challenges of modern science and the challenges from psychology and sociology.

Unit 2: Religious Ethics 1

You will have an opportunity to investigate the way we use various ethical terms. You will be introduced to and investigate contrasting ethical theories. This module explores how people make moral decisions using these different ethical theories. You will have the opportunity to apply these theories to practical medical issues such as abortion, euthanasia, the right to life, the right to a child, genetic engineering and embryo research.

What are the entry requirements?

Your 5 A* - C in subjects at GCSE must include Religious Studies and English.

How will I be assessed?

The AS GCE is made up of two units which are externally assessed by written examination. Examinations will be available only in the June examination session. The Advanced Subsidiary GCE is both a ‘stand-alone’ qualification and also the first half of the A2 course and form 50% of the corresponding four-unit Advanced GCE.

Future opportunities

What does the course lead to - ANYTHING!!!

Most universities have a Philosophy or Theology department where you can continue your studies. Even if you don’t continue it shows a broad mind, and a willingness to listen to new ideas, other than your own – a key skill in the modern job market. The skills developed in Philosophy of Religion and Religious Ethics could be particularly useful for careers in business, journalism, law, management, media medicine, public communication, politics, public relations, publishing, social work, and particularly teaching!!!

Is there anything I need to know?

Religious Studies would compliment many other subjects: for example, English, History, Sociology, Geography, Psychology and Politics. Ethics can also be a very useful complement to science subjects.

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I am writing to congratulate the Year 10 and Year 11 students who volunteered to take part in the mock interview process today which I was part of…. Students had taken time to do preparation work and the effort to look at the part of an interviewee. The students were a credit to the school and their parents. They were eloquent, enthusiastic and asked pertinent and searching questions of the interviewers.

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My daughter has just completed her A Levels and has now left Driffield School. However, I couldn’t let the occasion go without writing to thank you and your school for looking after her and giving her such a fine education – and more. Her splendid ‘A’ Level results stand testimony to hard work on her part and a lot of effort, encouragement and perseverance from her teachers.

Parent of Year 13 student

I would just like to know how much I enjoyed Driffield School’s production of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. The singing, notably from pupils in the lead parts, was fabulous. The acting in every case was excellent as was the musical accompaniment from the orchestra. Well done to all involved for supporting and encouraging the students in this way.

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Parent of Year 13 student

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