As a Church of England Academy, all students study Ethics and Philosophy at KS3 and GCSE during their time at Manshead CE Academy, with the option to continue to A Level if they choose to. At KS3 there is a focus on Christianity, Islam and Sikhism moving into ethical issues and how religions approach these. At GCSE there is an emphasis on both Christianity and Islam, their central beliefs and practices alongside thematic studies of areas such as relationships and peace and conflict. At A level students are able to study in depth Philosophy of Religion, Ethics and Development in Christian Thought. The department delivers a broad and balanced curriculum in order to allow students to develop their own beliefs whilst investigating the beliefs of others.

The knowledge gained by our students in Ethics and Philosophy will give them the wisdom to leave Manshead CE Academy with a solid grounding of different faiths to enable them to have an understanding of people from different cultures and backgrounds who they will encounter whatever path they choose to take.

Students across all key stages will be able to reflect on and develop their own values, beliefs and attitudes in light of what they have learnt. Within the department we study a range of relevant and contemporary themes that will promote awareness of modern-world issues and engagement. This helps to prepare our students for when they leave school and embark on courses and careers in the multi-cultural society in which they live. As part of Ethics and Philosophy students are taught acceptance and respect of those who are of a different faith and cultural background. A variety of teaching methods are used to allow students to explore various key questions and to allow students to gain an appreciation of different viewpoints and an acceptance of these.  Students are given the opportunity to work both independently and as part of a group to deepen their knowledge of the curriculum. Students of all abilities will be challenged and inspired, whilst developing valuable skills sought after by higher education and employers, such as the ability to construct an argument and explain their opinion.

The department organises visitors from various world faiths to enable students to have the chance to meet representatives and listen to their experiences of following their faith in the United Kingdom.

Students and parents both have access to the department’s knowledge organisers and revision resources available on Arbor. GCSE students all have access to SENECA, an online programme to help them with examination preparation and revision. BBC Bitesize Religious Education contains many interactive resources for both KS3 and GCSE which students can access to further their knowledge and understanding.