Religion, Philosophy and Ethics

Head of Department: Mrs S Craveiro

The study of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics develops our pupils’ knowledge and understanding of the religions and beliefs which form part of contemporary society. RPE provokes challenging questions about the meaning and purpose of life, beliefs, oneself and right and wrong. We develop pupils’ knowledge and understanding of principal religions and world views. RPE also contributes to pupils’ personal development and well-being and to community cohesion by promoting mutual respect and tolerance in our diverse society.

All pupils follow our core RPE curriculum across all of Key Stage 3 and 4. Pupils may also choose to undertake the GCSE RPE course if they wish.

 

If you would like to view related Key Stage 5 courses, please click the links below:

A Level - Religious Studies

A Level - Philosophy

A Level - Politics

A Level - Sociology

Key Stage 3

Click the downloads for more detailed curriculum information.

Key Stage 4

What is Religion, Philosophy and Ethics?

In RPE, we look at the big questions in life such as: what is the value of family life? Is going to war ever right? Is there evidence that God exists?  Should human beings have the right to die? What do Muslims believe about life after death? Why do Christians pray? If these questions interest you, RPE GCSE is the subject for you. One of the main applications of RPE in the ‘real world’ today is being able to understand and write arguments – an invaluable skill in law, medicine, journalism or any of the highly skilled professions you might be considering as a career.

RPE GCSE Results 2022

Grades 9 - 7	60%
Grades 9 - 4	96%

What skills will I develop?

By the end of the course, you will be able to write persuasively, use evidence in support of arguments, and consider the impact of culture and beliefs on decisions.  You will also gain critical analysis skills as well as empathy with the views of others.

What syllabus will I follow?

 OCR GCSE in Religious Studies (J625)

What will the course look like?

The GCSE course will cover these topics:

• Relationships and families
• The existence of God
• Peace and conflict
• Dialogue between religious and non-religious perspectives

We will also study the beliefs, teachings and practices in Christianity and Islam.

We also offer a trip to Rome and a day trip to visit two churches of different denominations and Cambridge central Mosque.

What homework will I get?

Homework will usually take the form of consolidation work including planning and writing exam practice questions.  There will be a set homework routine in year 11 as students practise for the final exams in the summer.

What jobs or further courses of study might this lead to?

Pupils who have undertaken this course have often chosen to study a plethora of different subjects including:

• Philosophy
• Religious studies
• Law
• Psychology/sociology
• Midwifery
• Social work
• Journalism

The skills and knowledge offered by the subject does lend itself to many different paths.

Are there any entry requirements for this course?

RPE GCSE is open to students of all abilities with an interest in different beliefs, philosophical and ethical issues who like to think/discuss/critique.

If I need additional support, what can I access?

We provide students with a range of opportunities for revision both in and outside of lessons.  We offer revision sessions in year 11 and will provide a comprehensive revision guide to students in preparation for the final examinations.  As a department we have strong links with the University of Cambridge and have been able to offer subject mentoring by trainee teachers to students needing more support.  We also offer subject-mentoring by year 12 and 13 students.

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