Theology Philosophy and Religion Essay competition Summer 2025
Prizes
Category 1: Year 6-7
First Prize: £40
Second Prize: £30
Third Prize: £20
Category 2: Year 8-9
First Prize: £60
Second Prize: £50
Third Prize: £40
This year we are very grateful to ISEB who have generously sponsored the prizes for this year’s TPR essay competition.
- An ISRSA school may enter up to 4 candidates per age category
- Only one essay per candidate may be entered
- Essays must be scanned (preferably as a pdf) and sent to ISRSA by Friday 9th May, 2025
- Each essay must have the candidate’s name, school and year group placed at the top
- Teachers must ensure that their pupils have written their own work
- Category 1: Year 6-7 essays must be no longer than 400 words
- Category 2: Years 8-9 essays must be no longer than 800 words
- By entering this competition, you give permission for us to post your pupils’ essays on our website.
Essay Questions
Category 1: Year 6-7
Essays must be no longer than 400 words.
Theology
‘Jesus told parables which were intended to be difficult to understand.’ Do you agree? Show that you have considered both sides of the argument.
Philosophy
‘The only aim of punishment should be to make the offender suffer for their crime.’ Do you agree? Show that you have considered both sides of the argument.
Religion
‘The purpose of religion is to achieve a reward after death.’ Do you agree? Show that you have considered both sides of the argument. Refer to at least two religions you have studied.
Category 2: Year 8-9
Essays must be no longer than 800 words.
Theology
‘Elijah’s contest with the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18) does not present God in a good light.’ Do you agree? Show that you have considered both sides of the argument.
Philosophy
‘Mill’s version of utilitarianism is superior to Bentham’s version.’ Do you agree? Show that you have considered both sides of the argument.
Religion
‘Humans are by nature religious beings.’ Do you agree? Show that you have considered both sides of the argument. Refer to at least two religions you have studied.
Closing date for essays to be emailed to ISRSA by Friday 9th May 2025
Entry Information
ISRSA Member Entry
Closing date for essays to be emailed to ISRSA [email protected] by Friday 9th May 2025
Non-Member Entry
Please register and sign in to our members area, then use the request invoice button below.
Please make sure that the invoice has been paid before submitting the essay.
Closing date for essays to be emailed to ISRSA [email protected] by Friday 9th May 2025