Philosophy, Religion & Ethics

GCSE 

Eduqas Route A C120P3

This course aims to nurture students’ curiosity about the world around them. Students will have the opportunity to study different world views in detail, both religious and non-religious. Students will be encouraged to reflect on their own faith and world views through their study of religious, philosophical and ethical arguments related to the issues raised, and their impact and influence on the modern world.

What will I study?

There are three papers in Religious Studies. Component one is ‘religious, philosophical and ethical studies in the modern world’. This consists of four modules: issues of life and death, issues of good and evil, issues of relationships and issues of human rights. Students study these issues in the modern world and contrast and compare religious views on each of these topics. Students are encouraged to consider similarities and differences between different religions, as well as within different branches of the same religion, for example Roman Catholics and Protestants. Component two is a ‘study of Christianity’, where students study the beliefs, teachings and practices of Christianity. For component three, students study another world faith, at Pinner High School we have chosen Islam for this component. Similarly to the study of Christianity, we consider beliefs, teachings and practices of Islam.

What would I enjoy about Religious Studies?

Religious studies is a perfect choice for students who are curious about the world around them. Whilst we do study religion in historical detail, this study is relevant to modern life and personal experiences. You do not have to be religious to take this course, you simply have to enjoy learning about other cultures, beliefs and practises. Religious studies is a GCSE that encourages students to develop their communication skills through debate, their research skills through collaborative and cross curricular projects, their ability to empathise with the perspectives of others all whilst developing their own world views. 

What careers is it useful for?

Religious Studies is exceptional at developing students’ communication skills in the written and verbal form. Extended writing in RS with a rigorous literacy focus means that this GCSE supports literacy in every subject. The subject lends itself well to a study of Theology, Philosophy, Law or Psychology at University level. In later life RS can lead to careers in Law, Education, Medicine, Research and the Public Services. Religious Studies can equip students with the knowledge they need to understand the multicultural world we live in, leading to excellent opportunities to work and travel abroad. 

How is it examined?

Component 1: Religious, philosophical and ethical studies in the modern world (50%)

Component 2: Study of Christianity (25%)

Component 3: Study of Islam (25%)