Philosophy A Level

Do you enjoy considering questions that are fundamental to our existence? Questions like: do humans have a soul, or is the concept of a morality really just a social invention?

If you want to explore and discuss such ideas in depth by constructing and deconstructing powerful arguments, then Philosophy is definitely the subject for you.

This is your opportunity to broaden your intellectual horizons and fine-tune your powers of analysis by grappling with questions that have challenged humankind since the dawn of recorded time.

It won’t be easy, but that is exactly what motivates people to study Philosophy in the first place.

Why choose
Philosophy A Level?

At Brock all our Philosophy teachers are seasoned specialists in this rigorous academic subject. Some are even published authors in philosophy with excellent academic reputations.

They will guide you through the complex landscape of philosophical thought, introducing you to theories of knowledge and mind, moral philosophy and philosophy of religion.

In order to do this successfully, they have created a wealth of original learning resources that break down the traditional boundaries to understanding.

Teaching & learning

The starting point for all areas of learning in Philosophy is classroom discussion, which is often characterised by lively debate.

Your teachers will encourage you to participate fully in an academic culture of collaboration whereby you help fellow students understand tricky concepts and arguments.

Undoubtedly, this course is academically challenging. However, all learning will be divided into manageable chunks.

For example, you will benefit from step-by-step teaching, student friendly booklets, group work and visual resources.

Information & support

You will read extracts written by a variety of philosophers and reconstituted by your teachers in the form of an anthology. Exam questions will then reference these extracts.

Minimum entry requirements

Five GCSEs at grade 4 and above to include:

• English Language grade 6
• Maths
• Other GCSEs average grade 5

Course structure

• Develop your skills of analysis, evaluation and argument construction.

• Explore ideas that have intrigued philosophers for thousands of years such as ‘What is the right thing to do?’, ‘Is there a God?’ and ‘What is knowledge?’.

• Debate current ethical issues such as whether or not it is wrong to play violent computer games.

• Challenge yourself by reading some of the most influential philosophical texts ever written.

• Ask questions about the most fundamental elements of existence like: ‘Do I have a body?’ and ‘Do other minds exist?’.

• Refine your writing skills by developing greater precision in expressing your ideas.

What can I do with this qualification?

A strong pass in Philosophy is worth a lot in academic terms. Indeed, A Level Philosophy is recognised by top universities as one of the most intellectually challenging Further Education courses.

Importantly, A Level Philosophy hones your skills of analysis and your ability to construct solid arguments. These transferable skills make it ideal preparation for most academic university courses and job training schemes.

In the past this course has led students towards successful careers in areas like law, journalism, teaching and nursing, among many others.

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