Theology, Philosophy, and Religion

Alongside developing their theological understanding, delving into philosophy and key thinkers throughout history will lead our pupils to consider topics critically, such as ethics and morality, the origins of life, existence, and meaning. Testing truth and understanding knowledge and doubt offers a good foundation for pupils to explore moral philosophy and practical ethics throughout their time at the Under School.

Being equipped with systematic knowledge and understanding of a range of religions and worldviews will enable pupils to develop their ideas, values, and identities. Becoming versed in dynamic dialogue, each individual pupil will become more competent in deploying the skills needed to understand, interpret, and evaluate a range of texts and other evidence. They will also learn to articulate their perspective clearly and coherently, while respecting the right of others to differ and being aware of implicit biases they themselves may hold.

Naturally, the subject lends itself to encouraging and promoting our whole‑school ‘Values Based Education’, which we endeavour to nurture within TPR. Alongside this, we encourage pupils to be true to themselves and others, thinking for themselves and contributing positively to sessions, showing respect for others, and demonstrating their devotion to always giving their best.

Aims of the TPR curriculum:

• to have a sound understanding of the Bible — essential to the study of Western Civilizations as the basis for Judeo‑Christian (and, to some extent, Islamic) worldviews;
• to interpret intelligently;
• to employ ethics and critical thinking in our everyday lives;
• to relate to contemporary issues, e.g. how we govern society; justice; moral and ethical choices; human nature; theories of how we came into existence;
• to develop a sound understanding of world religions, beliefs, history, and practices.

Throughout content delivery, British Values of individual liberty and mutual respect, and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs, will be taught and promoted.

The approach to TPR is sympathetically objective rather than confessional. No one position or religion is assumed to be right, and, in particular, Christianity is not assumed to be the norm. Pupils are encouraged to acquire a sympathetic understanding of what it means to follow each of the major world religions and to make up their own minds as to the value of these, of differing worldviews, and of religion in general.

• Pupils are encouraged to attend the Debating Society and other societies across the arts, humanities, and sciences, as this helps to build connections and deepen their ability to think in the subject.
• Pupils are encouraged to partake in essay competitions, both nationally and internationally, such as the ISRSA essay prize and the John Locke essay competition.

Mr Graham Floyd — Assistant Master (Academic)
Mr Peter Lawson — Head of Theology, Philosophy and Religion; Head of Year 5; Acting Head of Year 6
Mrs Mary Raikes — 3R Class Teacher