Core Subject
RELIGION, PHILOSOPHY AND ETHICS
The teaching of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics within Guildford Grammar School supports
the purpose and religious foundation of the School through an academically rigorous syllabus
concerned with the production of critical thinkers, the promotion of intellectual curiosity, and
the analysis and appreciation of Christian and other religious values and practice. The subject
is taught in an academically rigorous fashion and with the inclusiveness expected of liberal
but orthodox Anglican schooling. Compassion, empathy and service beyond self are integral
elements of such education.
From Year 7 to Year 10 all students study a foundational program of Religion, Philosophy &
Ethics which concentrates on four interrelated areas of study, ensuring the students have a
broad and firm understanding of religious, philosophical and ethical issues and as such are
also well prepared for the Western Australian Certificate of Education subjects, Philosophy &
Ethics, and Religion, Spirituality & Life. The four streams are Christian Theology; Philosophy
of Religion; Ethics, and World Religions.
Year 7
In Term 1 students are introduced to Judaism, the religion into which Jesus was born and out
of which Christianity grew. Its origins, history, practices and teachings are discussed. In Term
2, the life and significance of Jesus Christ is investigated while in Term 3 the Philosophy of
Religion module discusses the significance and development of symbols and stories. In
Ethical Frameworks in Term 4, students consider the ethical dimensions of what it means to
be a good leader and what is understood by servant leadership.
Year 8
In Term 1, Christian Theology students investigate Christian rituals and festivals, while in
Term 2 they analyse issues of prejudice, including sexism, racism, ageism, and religious
intolerance in the Philosophy of Religion unit. During Term 3 in Ethics the students analyse
the concepts of war and peace including the “just war theory.” An understanding of the origins,
history, practices and teachings of Hinduism occurs in Term 4. Throughout each semester
students undertake a Service Learning unit on the environment in which, as well as addressing
the many issues associated with the topic, they conduct the School’s paper recycling program.
Year 9
In Term 1 the Christian Theology unit investigates myths, stories and parables, while in the
Philosophy of Religion unit in Term 2 students discover and discuss the relationship of science
and religion, including exploration of issues associated with the origins of the Universe and
evolution. The Ethics unit in Term 3 provides an opportunity to investigate questions relating
to poverty and wealth throughout the world while in Term 4 students develop an understanding
of the origins, history, practices and teachings of Buddhism or Sikhism. Throughout each
semester students undertake a Service Learning unit on charitable giving in which they are
required to develop a portfolio advocating assistance for a preferred charity.
A number of subjects within the Personal Learning Program discuss issues relating to
Religion, Philosophy and Ethics.
For additional details about these Core Religion, Philosophy & Ethics courses, please contact:
Head of Religion, Philosophy & Ethics, The Rev’d Dr Philip Raymont,
[email protected] or 9377 9245.
Page | 28