Philosophy

A-Level Philosophy explores fascinating topics that challenge your understanding of knowledge, morality and ultimate questions about existence. The course is divided into two years, each focusing on distinct areas of philosophical thought.

Year 12

Epistemology (The Theory of Knowledge):

This topic asks the fundamental questions about how we know things and whether we can trust our perceptions of reality.

Key questions include:

• How can we be sure about the things we claim to know?

• Do we see the world directly, or only through our senses? For example, does a bat’s sensory experience of the world differ from ours, and is either of these perspectives more ‘correct’?

• How do we know we’re not dreaming or plugged into a supercomputer, like in The Matrix?

Ethics (Moral Philosophy)

This area explores the nature of morality and how we determine right and wrong.

Topics include:

• Should actions be judged by rules or their consequences?
• How do we apply moral reasoning to issues like stealing, eating animals, lying, and simulated killing in media?
• Are moral truths universal or subjective, like personal preferences?

Year 13

Ultimate Questions: The Concept of God, Religious Language, and the Existence of God

This unit dives into the philosophical analysis of God and religious ideas, asking questions such as:

• Does the concept of God as an ultimate being make sense?
• Can God know the future if it hasn’t happened yet?
• Is something good because God wills it, or does God will it because it is good?
• Can God create a stone so heavy that even He cannot lift it?
• How can human language describe God, who is unlike us?

These thought-provoking topics will refine your critical thinking and evaluative skills, helping you engage with some of the most profound ideas in human history.

The Philosophy of Mind

What exactly do we mean by ‘mind’? While we all experience having one, can it be accurately defined? You may know you have a mind, but how can we be sure others do too – or could everyone else just be a philosophical zombie?

The topic also explores the complex relationship between the mind and the body. You’ll examine contrasting perspectives:

• Dualists argue that the mind and body are distinct and separate entities. 
• Physicalists claim there is no such distinction, suggesting the mind and brain are one and the same, with mental processes being purely physical activity.

Through these debates, you’ll critically analyse what it means to have a mind and the implications of these theories. 

The Philosophy A-Level course opens doors to a wide range of university courses and career opportunities. 

Many of our students go on to study Philosophy or combine it with other disciplines at degree level.

Popular degree options include:

• Philosophy
• History
• Sociology
• Religious Studies
• Law
• Politics 
• Mathematics

Philosophy graduates develop skills in critical thinking, analysis, and communication which are highly valued across many fields.

This qualification can lead to careers in:

• Teaching
• Publishing
• Welfare services
• The church
• Politics and civil service
• Management 

The A-Level Philosophy course is assessed by the AQA exam board.

Assessment Details:

Over the two years, you will complete five College Assessment Points (CAPs):

• CAP 1-3 in Year 12

• CAP 4-5 in Year 13

There is no coursework for this course.

At the end of the two years, you will sit two final exams, which will include:

• Knowledge-based questions on the thinkers and ideas studied.

• Essay questions where you’ll present arguments for or against key philosophical theories.

The course is designed to build the skills you need for these exams, with ample time dedicated to revision and exam preparation to ensure you feel confident and ready.

To enrol on the Philosophy A-Level course, you’ll need:

• At least five GCSEs at grade 5 or above
• A grade 6 or higher in both English Language and Maths

If you’re looking for something more flexible, we offer a Mixed Programme. This allows you to combine A-Levels with BTECs. Even if you’re not on track to achieve all five grade 5s, this option provides a brilliant opportunity to adapt your studies to your needs.