Philosophy A Level 3

Applications Open: - 8th October 2025

Applications Close:- 20th August 2026

How to Apply: - Please contact The Skinners’ School directly to apply. We do not accept applications via KentChoices

Please see here for more information about our Sixth Form and to complete an application form.

Philosophy is an activity people undertake when they seek to understand themselves, the world they live in, and the nature of reality. Those who study philosophy are engaged in some of life’s most meaningful and challenging questions. Philosophy students learn how to write clearly, read closely and analyse meticulously. Most importantly philosophy is a fascinating subject that gives students the analytical skills required to study any subject at university.

The word ‘Philosophy’ from the Ancient Greek ‘Philosophia’, meaning ‘love of wisdom’. To study the subject, you need an open mind, a passion for learning and a willingness to work hard.

The Philosophy A level is challenging and rewarding in equal measure. Staff have expert knowledge in different areas of Philosophy. The main topics are Metaphysics of Mind, Ethics, Epistemology and Metaphysics of God. The AQA A level involves a rigorous analysis of classical and contemporary philosophy in the analytic tradition. Students learn about the nature and limits of knowledge, the structure of morality, the ontology of being and the arguments for and against God’s existence.

Students will sit two papers at the end of year 13 designed to test both their knowledge of the course and their ability to analyse complex concepts.

• Paper 1 – Epistemology and Moral Philosophy (3 hours) 50%: 100 marks
• Paper 2 – Metaphysics of Mind and Metaphysics of God (3 hours) 50%: 100 marks

Philosophy teaches you how to think for yourself and how to analyse and communicate ideas clearly and logically. Jobs are available in almost every type of employer in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Opportunities are available in arts-based areas like publishing, the media, journalism, law, advertising and teaching, and the subject also works well alongside A Levels in science and maths.