Learning
Jewish Studies

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Jewish Studies in the Sixth Form at The King David High School offers students the opportunity to explore Jewish thought, philosophy and ethics in greater depth while developing advanced academic and analytical skills. 

The course encourages students to engage thoughtfully with fundamental questions about identity, morality and responsibility. Through the study of classical Jewish texts, philosophical ideas and contemporary ethical challenges, students develop a deeper understanding of Jewish tradition and its relevance to modern life. 

Students are encouraged to think critically, debate ideas respectfully and explore the ways in which religious belief and ethical reasoning shape individuals and societies. 

 

Course Overview 

A Level Religious Studies (AQA) 

Students follow the AQA A Level Religious Studies specification, which provides a rigorous academic study of religion, philosophy and ethics. 

The course develops students’ ability to analyse complex ideas, evaluate different viewpoints and construct well-reasoned arguments. 

 

Areas of Study

Students explore three main areas of study: 

Judaism 

Students examine key beliefs, practices and philosophical ideas within Judaism, exploring both classical sources and modern interpretations. 

 

Philosophy of Religion 

This area explores major philosophical questions such as the nature of God, arguments for and against religious belief, and the relationship between faith and reason. 

 

Ethical Theories 

Students study major ethical frameworks and consider how they apply to contemporary moral issues and dilemmas. 

Together, these topics encourage students to think deeply about religion, philosophy and ethics while developing a broader understanding of human belief and behaviour. 

 

Assessment 

A Level Religious Studies is assessed through externally examined papers at the end of the two-year course. 

Assessment focuses on students’ ability to: 

  • Analyse and interpret religious and philosophical ideas 

  • Evaluate different viewpoints and arguments 

  • Construct well-developed essays and reasoned conclusions 

Students receive regular feedback on written work and extended essays to help refine their analytical and evaluative skills. 

 

Skills Developed 

Jewish Studies and Religious Studies develop a wide range of transferable skills that are highly valued in higher education and professional careers. 

Students develop: 

  • Critical thinking and philosophical reasoning 

  • Analytical reading of complex texts

  • Structured and persuasive essay writing 

  • Ethical evaluation and debate 

  • Independent research and reflection 

These skills support success across many academic and professional fields.

 

Enrichment Opportunities 

Students studying Jewish Studies benefit from a rich programme of enrichment opportunities that deepen their understanding of Jewish life and thought. 

These may include: 

  • Lunch-and-learn sessions and discussion forums 

  • Chessed and social action programmes 

  • Jewish festival celebrations and educational events 

  • Educational trips, including visits to Poland and Israel 

  • Cross-curricular activities exploring Jewish culture, history and identity 

These experiences help students connect their academic study with lived Jewish experience and contemporary global issues. 

 

Progression and Career Pathways 

Students who study Religious Studies often progress to a wide range of university courses and career pathways. 

Recent students have gone on to study subjects including: 

  • Philosophy and Theology 

  • Politics 

  • History 

  • Law 

  • Medicine 

  • Sciences 

The subject develops highly transferable skills including critical thinking, ethical reasoning and clear communication, which are valuable in many professional fields. 

 

Teaching Staff 

Rabbi C. Cohen – Head of Department 

Rabbi A. Schwarz – Coordinator of Jewish Informal Education 

Rabbi A. Nyman – Head of Kodesh (Yavneh Boys) 

Mrs R. Wolf – Head of Kodesh (Yavneh Girls) 

Jewish Studies Staff Team: 

  • Mrs E. Hoffner 

  • Rabbi Y. Joseph 

  • Rabbi S. Klyne 

  • Rabbi A. Richman 

  • Mrs J. Roskin 

  • Rabbi S. Schwarz 

  • Rabbi S. Schwalbe 

  • Rabbi B. Simmonds 

 

Contact 

For further information about studying Jewish Studies / Religious Studies in the Sixth Form, please contact: 

Rabbi C. Cohen – Religious Studies 

c.cohen@kdhigh.co.uk 

Rabbi A. Schwarz – Jewish Informal Education 

a.schwartz@kdhigh.co.uk