Academic > Departments > Religious Studies
The Religious Studies department aims to make boys think in new and challenging ways. Theology, Philosophy, Ethics and some PSE issues are explored in a non-confessional manner that engages boys and forces them to grapple with 'big' issues that are supremely relevant to the world around them. The emphasis is on questioning, freely exploring religious ideas, articulating clear and coherent arguments as well as providing time for personal reflection.
All boys study Divinity in the Novi (3 periods per cycle) and are introduced to topics ranging from introductory Philosophy of Religion to Islamic attitudes to terrorism. In the Fourth Form compulsory Divinity continues (2 periods per cycle) in which boys are introduced to Buddhism, Judaism and various PSE topics. GCSE Religious Studies is offered as an option and boys studying it follow OCR's course in Philosophy and Ethics.
In the Sixth Form boys may opt for AS and A level Religious Studies in which Religious Ethics and New Testament theology are examined. This is an excellent intellectual training which encourages clarity of thought and articulate expression and forms a respected basis for any arts or science degree.