Philosophy and Ethics

Studying Philosophy and Ethics helps students to broaden their thinking and outlook to life by learning about and embracing other cultures and ways of thinking. The department consists of highly knowledgeable teachers who are passionate about their subject. Teaching is discursive and accessible to a range of learning styles, as well as supportive of students' ability to form opinions for themselves.

Our aim is to promote a real enthusiasm for the study of Philosophy and Ethics by exposing students to a range of religious and non-religious ways of thinking as well as to develop critical thinking skills and tolerance. Creativity is at the heart of the curriculum and students will learn to engage in a wide range of topics which foster independence as they progress through the school. 

At Key Stage 3, students study a range of topics including Respect, The law and wisdom, Equality, Justice, Feminism, Existentialism, Environmentalism, Pacifism and terrorism as well as undertaking some independent reading and research. Discussion, debate and student presentations will form a regular part of lessons.

At Key Stage 4, we follow the AQA Philosophy and Ethics specification. Students will have an option to choose to study Philosophy and Ethics at GCSE level.  Students will study a range of topical and thought-provoking topics such as Beliefs and teachings, Relationships and families, Religion, peace and conflict, Human rights and social justice and Crime and punishment.  The course is a 100% examination.  

At Key Stage 5, A-Level we follow the AQA specification. The topics are stimulating and demanding, and the course is highly valued by universities and involves engaging with challenging philosophies, texts and ideas.   The course is a 100% examination.  We aim to enable students to develop incisive thinking skills, sophisticated critical acumen as well as the ability to make independent judgements.