Religion, Ethics and Philosophy

All students at Key Stage 3 have one lesson per week and two courses run in Key Stage 4.

If students choose to, they continue with the GCSE, where they will learn about the beliefs, teachings and practices of Christianity and Buddhism. We also cover the final theme of Religion and Life. They will continue to have one lesson per week.

Those not choosing the GCSE complete a different qualification called a Higher Project Qualification, or HPQ for short. This is a great opportunity for students to research an ethical or philosophical topic of their choice and to write a 2000 word essay. The HPQ allows students to gain some important skills –research and referencing, independent learning, time management, to name but a few – preparing them for further study post 16. This is taught in one lesson per fortnight.

We offer an A level in Philosophy in the Sixth Form along side the well established EPQ (Extended Project Qualification).

Curriculum Intent

The pace of 21st century life is fast and full of change. The changes, especially in technology, are sometimes faster than many of us can keep up with. It seems we are left with less and less time to stop and reflect. However, there are moments when we are forced to wonder why and ask questions about our very existence.REP is a subject that gives students the opportunity to do just that.

REP often suffers from the misconception that it is a subject that seeks to impart religious knowledge in the hope of conversion. This is an age old misconception and misunderstanding of the true worth and purpose of this subject. By studying religious beliefs and investigating different cultures, students develop an understanding of the world in which we live and of the people alongside whom we work. Students explore the ultimate questions of human existence and therefore find the lessons highly relevant, exploring and reflecting on their own experiences, values and beliefs in the light of their study. REP stands for Religion, Ethics and Philosophy. We felt it was a better description of our multi - disciplinary approach.

Religions – or theology -  is about believing. It looks at where beliefs come from, how they have changed over time, how they are applied differently in different contexts and how they relate to each other.

Ethics – or Human and social sciences -  is about living. It explores the diverse ways in which people practise their beliefs. It engages with the impact of religion and belief on individuals, communities and societies.

Philosophy -  is about thinking. It is about finding out how and whether things make sense. It deals with questions of morality and ethics. It takes seriously the nature of reality, knowledge and existence.

The REP Department at Imberhorne aims to encourage deep thinking on a variety of philosophical, cultural and spiritual issues to help foster an environment of respect and open-mindedness.  Students have the opportunity to develop their own opinions and be able to give reasons for their arguments, as well as to understand why others think differently. This subject is inclusive and is designed to be accessible to students of any religious belief or none. We follow the West Sussex Agreed Syllabus. 

Questioning, discussion and debate play a pivotal role in lessons. Students enjoy the opportunity to learn through discussion and questioning one another. The subject teaches a range of important transferable skills, including critical analysis, debate, public speaking and research skills.

Staff Information

NamePosition / ResponsibilityE-Mail
Mrs N QuickLeader of Learning for R.E.P.nquick [at] imberhorne [dot] co [dot] uk
Mr D ClubbKS3 Leader for R.E.P.dclubb [at] imberhorne [dot] co [dot] uk
Mrs M NuzzoR.E.P Teachermnuzzo [at] imberhorne [dot] co [dot] uk