We have consulted teachers and worked with subject experts to review the Cambridge International AS & A Level Divinity (8041/9011) syllabuses. As a result, we have redeveloped the syllabuses under the new name Biblical Studies, retaining the essence of the original subject content, while specifying and contextualising it more, and applying it to some philosophical and ethical questions.
What are the main changes to the syllabus?
To support teachers and learners, we have:
- refocused some content and added new areas exploring ‘big questions’ of life and faith
- made several different topic areas compulsory, with four topic areas studied and assessed at Cambridge International A Level, and two topic areas at Cambridge International AS Level
- included a list of key concepts, command words and their meanings.
What are the main changes to the assessment?
- There are two compulsory examination papers for Cambridge International AS Level and four compulsory examination papers for Cambridge International A Level, with durations of 1 hour 30 minutes each.
- We do not assess spelling and grammar, but focus more on analysis and evaluation skills.
- A variety of different types of assessment questions are used at both Cambridge AS and A level.
- There is a small number of options within each question paper, as research suggests that a large number of optional questions does not benefit learners.
When do these changes take place?
The updated syllabus is for examination from November 2023 onwards. Please see the 2023 syllabus above for full details.
Support
We are developing a comprehensive range of materials to help you teach the updated syllabus. These resources will be available from June 2021 onwards (before first teaching) through our School Support Hub and include:
- Scheme of work
- Example Candidate Responses (after first examination).
Training
Face-to-face and online training will be available. For up-to-date information, visit our Events and training calendar.