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    Philosophy, Religion and Ethics

    Through the study of Philosophy, Religion, and Ethics, we help students understand that religion is, and always will be, a significant factor in the way the world develops. It influences our politics, our societies, our laws, and has left an indelible mark on history and human behaviour. By studying contemporary ethical issues, alongside the history of philosophical thought and modern-day religious practices, we aim to help students understand the immense impact faith and ideas have on the world around them today.

    Kimbolton School First Form Trip to Peterborough Cathedral
    A Philosophy, Religion and Ethics Lesson at Kimbolton SchoolA Philosophy, Religion and Ethics Lesson at Kimbolton SchoolA Philosophy, Religion and Ethics Lesson at Kimbolton SchoolA Philosophy, Religion and Ethics Lesson at Kimbolton School

    Departmental Staff

    Head of Religious Studies

    01480 862212

    Curriculum

    First to Third Forms – compulsory for all pupils

    In the First Form, we start by attempting to answer the question, what is God? By looking at a range of different ideas from the ancient Greeks to modern day religious art, we tackle one of the biggest philosophical questions of all. This unit of work is followed by in-depth studies of Judaism and Christianity, before moving on to investigate the ethical issues raised by war and conflict.

    The Second Form starts with an investigation into whether or not it is rational to believe in God, drawing upon ideas from a range of philosophers and thinkers such as Freud, Aquinas, and Swinburne. Students then undertake a detailed study of Islam, followed by an inquiry into the ethics of modern-day consumerism

    In the Third Form, we begin by exploring Buddhism, a fascinating religion with a rich history and culture. This leads to a study into the philosophical concept of life after death, and a unit of work on medical ethics exploring topics such as cloning, euthanasia, and the ‘saviour sibling’ debate. The year ends with a philosophical enquiry into free will and determinism, asking the question: To what extent are my actions free?

    Fourth and Fifth Forms – optional GCSE subject

    Religion is inescapable in our world; it informs our traditions and our cultures, it underpins much of our law-making and politics, and has left an indelible mark on our history. Studying this subject has never been more important to understanding the world around us.

    The course has two parts. Firstly, an in-depth study of two vastly different religions (Hinduism and Christianity) – which between them account for nearly four billion people on the planet, more than half of the world’s population. We study the key theological principles of each faith, such as their beliefs about God, life after death, human purpose, and the origins of life, as well as investigating how these beliefs are translated into practice through worship and religious festivals.

    Secondly, you will explore a range of ethical and philosophical ‘themes’ wherein you apply your understanding of Christian beliefs to modern-day scenarios such as war and peace, the existence of God, and the ethics of crime and punishment. You will consider questions such as “is the death penalty ever justified?”, “is pacifism a coherent belief in the 21st century?” and, “is it possible to prove or disprove the existence of God?”. You will critically evaluate various Christian responses to such questions and also compare and contrast these ideas with your own views and humanist or atheist standpoints.

    Over two years you will develop your ability to think critically, distinguishing between opinion, belief and fact, whilst recognising bias, prejudice and stereotyping. You will learn to construct balanced arguments, debating issues in a respectful manner.

    Sixth Form - A Level optional subject: Philosophy, Religion and Ethics

    OCR Religious Studies course: H573/01 Philosophy of Religion; H573/02 Religion and Ethics; H573/03 Developments in Christian thought.

    Religion is, and always will be, a significant factor in the way the world develops. It influences our politics, our societies, our laws, and has left an indelible mark on history. As such, if one fails to understand the world’s religious beliefs and practices, then one fails to understand the world.

    Over the two-year PRE course, you will study a wide range of religious, ethical, and philosophical ideas from throughout history and up to the modern day: ‘Is survival after death a possibility?’ ‘When is it right to kill one person in order to save others?’ ‘Can you be a feminist and a Christian?’ ‘Who actually was Jesus?’ ‘Is euthanasia morally justifiable?’ ‘Does the concept of God make coherent sense?’ There will be big ideas to grapple with, current issues to debate, and the ideas of great thinkers from the ancient Greeks right up to the feminist philosophers of today to evaluate and understand.

    In doing so, you will develop vital skills of critical analysis and independent thought, whilst learning to construct informed, balanced, and persuasive arguments. We will attend lectures and workshops that will enrich and extend your understanding, such as a study day with renowned ethicist Dr Peter Vardy.

    This course offers an academic approach to the study of religion and is therefore equally accessible to candidates of any religious persuasion or none.

    Beyond the classroom: Extend your learning in PRE by joining Enlightenment Society to explore and debate philosophical and ethical concepts, attend study days at top universities with world-renowned theologians, enter nationwide essay competitions, and immerse yourself in philosophical podcasts.

    Extra-Curricular Activities

    • All PRE students are encouraged to attend the after-school Philosophy Society meetings.
    • “Film-osophy” club examines religious, philosophical, and ethical themes through film (open to First to Third Form pupils)
    • Second Form pupils, in collaboration with the English department, attend an afternoon of Philosophy workshops run by renowned philosopher and author Jason Buckley.

    Regular Trips, Visitors and Competitions

    • First to Third Form: students visit Peterborough Cathedral as part of their studies into Christianity and participate in a visit to Cadbury World in a joint trip with the Geography Department to study the practical applications of Quaker philosophy. Throughout the year, there are also opportunities to visit various places of worship in order to gain a clearer understanding of the lived experience of different faiths today.
    • GCSE related: GCSE students visit the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, the largest Hindu temple in the UK. This complements their studies into Hinduism and allows them to see how Hinduism is practiced in UK today. 
    • A-Level related: students have the opportunity to attend workshop and lecture events run by renowned ethicist and author Peter Vardy.