Philosophy, Religion and Ethics (P.R.E.) A Level

TO MAKE AN APPLICATION TO MERCIA SCHOOL PLEASE APPLY VIA THE MERCIA WEBSITE https://www.merciaschool.com

The deadline date for applications is 31st December 2022 (more information is available on Mercia School website)

Philosophy, Religion and Ethics (PRE) offers the opportunity to explore the philosophy of religion, ethics and theology in a critical and reflective manner. PRE enables scholars to explore the fundamental questions which have been raised by humanity for thousands of years, whilst also critiquing history’s most famous ethicists, theologians and philosophers.

Over the course of two years, those studying will have extensive opportunities to develop their own ideas and arguments, whilst also developing reading, writing, critical thinking and analytical skills. Following the successful completion of an A Level in PRE, all scholars will be mature, critical thinkers with outstanding transferable skills which are highly regarded by universities and employers alike. PRE is highly regarded by admissions tutors at the UK’s top universities.

Exam board: OCR

This course consists of three components: Philosophy of Religion, Ethics and Religion and Developments in Religious Thought. During component 1, scholars will study a wide range of topics including ancient philosophical influences and ideas about the nature of God. Component 2 covers a fascinating range of topics, ranging from normative ethical theories and ethics related to sex, the environment and business. Finally, component 3 focusses on the development of Christian thought, beginning with Augustine’s teachings on human nature and ending with complex debate around Christian morality. The course is assessed through the completion of three twohour examinations, with no coursework set. Each exam is worth 33.3% of the total A Level. In each exam, scholars will write three extended essays from a choice of four. 40% of available marks are for knowledge and understanding and 60% are for analysis and evaluation.

At least a grade 7 in GCSE RS or at least a grade 7 in GCSE English Language

PRE compliments both science and humanities-based subjects. When combined with the sciences, scholars will find links between their studies, for example: the origins of the universe will be covered in Physics, so too will this be covered in the PRE course. PRE is also an excellent course for those studying and seeking to enter careers relating to Maths and Science.

The combination of both the sciences and PRE could also demonstrate a well-rounded candidate for both university and future job opportunities. For Humanities based subjects, PRE is also very complementary, as these subjects require many of the same skills, including critical thinking, essay writing, textual analysis and the reading of extended texts. The study of PRE will also enable progress in other subjects through the development of critical thinking and evaluative writing skills. Similar content is also explored between the Humanities, including: the role of religion in politics or the factors behind migration, for example.