Religion and Philosophy

Religion and Philosophy focuses on the questions of meaning, value and purpose in life and is concerned with humankind's exploration of these questions. The aim of the Department is to produce articulate, open-minded, tolerant pupils who are able to empathise with those who are different from themselves and are able to reflect upon their experience of life. All pupils study core Religion and Philosophy as part of their timetable, and in S3, S5 and S6 there is the opportunity to extend these studies by selecting from a number of available courses.

In S1 and S2 we aim to enable pupils to explore the nature and meaning of existence in relation to the questions religions ask and the answers they offer. An insight into the major world religions is a feature of the first two years of the course. In S3, S4 and S5 the emphasis is on encouraging the pupils to consider their own experience and to develop insights into situations which pose moral and ethical questions. The courses are delivered in a variety of ways. Activities include group discussion, video presentations, visits to places of worship, talks from visiting speakers and inter-school conferences.

In addition to the core course in Religion and Philosophy that all pupils follow, pupils can opt to study Intermediate 2 Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies in S3 and S4. This provides an opportunity for an in-depth study of a World Religion, and a focus on moral and religious responses to an ever changing world. Philosophy is also taught as a Higher and non-certificate course in S6 where pupils are encouraged to debate and consider the classic philosophical dilemmas. Advanced Higher Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies is also taught in S6 including work on the Problem of Evil and Suffering, as well as Bioethics, a unit popular with potential medics.