Philosophy

A Level / 2 year Course / AQA

Philosophy is an invitation to think and argue about some of the most profound areas of human experience, often in areas where science can’t give us satisfactory answers. We read, think, argue and debate the basis of morality, the nature of religion, the many ways of knowing something and whether they are all of equal value. Whether we are born a blank slate or with certain ideas already present within us. All opinions are interesting and all are treated with deep scepticism.

More on this course

There are four areas of study and in each we engage with the great thinkers of the past and present.

Epistemology: What do we know and how do we know it? This pursues questions raised by the infamous white and gold dress; how much confidence can we have in our senses?

Ethics: How can we establish right and wrong? Should we look at a person’s motivations for doing x? Should we look at the consequences of x? Is x right or wrong regardless of why we do it or what consequences it has? Is goodness even a real thing?

MIND: Why are human minds the only thing we know of in the universe to have consciousness? Why has modern science made so much progress studying how a brain works and yet made no advance on what consciousness is? Why is a brain aware of itself?

Religion: Can we prove God’s existence? Can we make the idea of a good god fit with the reality of a world of suffering?

Teaching and learning methods

We assume no prior knowledge, but value the following traits: you must be open to new ideas; you must be able to deal with difficult and odd concepts; you need to be capable of novel, logical thinking; you will be assisted to engage with complex ideas, taxing texts and logical thought processes and you must therefore be capable of independent thought. We value discussion, curiosity and an ability to construct very precise arguments.

Assessment

The course is examined by two three-hour written examinations at the end of the course. These consist of a wide range of questions and question styles (from essays through short answer questions) to suit all learners.

Skills and Careers Insight

A Level Media Philosophy combines critical thinking and media analysis, helping you understand how media influences society, ethics, and human behaviour. You'll explore key philosophical concepts while examining the impact of media on culture, politics, and personal identity. This deep analytical approach develops your problem-solving, argumentation, and communication skills. Career opportunities include roles in media ethics, content creation, journalism, advertising, public relations, and policy-making. Whether you're drawn to media analysis, research, or shaping the ethical landscape of modern media, A Level Media Philosophy provides a unique foundation for a career that blends critical thinking with creative industries.

Subject Combination

Philosophy sits extremely well with all other subjects; students may wish to complement their science with metaphysics (the questions science can’t answer) or complement the elements of Plato in classics with some more in-depth study here; the logic of mathematics and computing are mirrored in the construction of logical accounts; Religious studies students will find some overlap, but may welcome this. There is no subject or student that cannot benefit from rigorous thinking and engagement. Most subjects have an ethical side and many careers (e.g. medicine) depend upon such thinking.

Classical Civilisation

Religious Studies: Theology and Ethics

Mathematics

Computing

Student Testimonials

What do our students think about studying here?

I think the best thing about Durham Sixth Form Centre is the fact that it’s a mature environment and it gives you the independence you need.

Sam Henig

Previous school - Wellfield School

I think Durham Sixth Form Centre is a perfect choice because the lessons are well planned and there is a brilliant balance between independent learning and support from all teachers.

Hannah Warwick

Previous school - Hermitage Academy

When I was in Year 11, the biggest worry for me was the transitional period between Year 11 and Year 12. But the support and the teachers made this so much smoother for me moving from my secondary school to Durham Sixth Form Centre.

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Previous school - Whitworth Park Academy

The atmosphere and quality of teaching at Durham Sixth Form Centre is very impressive and you can see a great deal of passion from the educators, which is something I believe is very important.

Logan Aitchinson

Previous school - Park View School

Even if you start Durham Sixth Form Centre with no idea where you’re going, you will get the opportunities to talk about your future and go through it and you’ll know what you’re doing later on.

Alice Robson

Previous school - Belmont School

Durham Sixth Form Centre stood out to me for its amazing choice of subjects. I struggled to find anywhere else that would accommodate all my subjects and my specific combination.

Abbie Clifford

Previous school - Hermitage Academy