Theology Philosophy and Religion Essay competition Summer 2026
Prizes
Category 1: Year 6-7
Second Prize: £30
Third Prize: £20
Category 2: Years 8 – 9
Second Prize: £50
Third Prize: £40
Rules
- An ISRSA member 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 8th May, 2026
- 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
Essay Questions
Category 1: Year 6-7
Theology
Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer, showing that you have considered both sides of the argument.
Philosophy
‘War can never be justified, whatever the circumstances.’
Do you agree? Show that you have considered both sides of the argument.
Religion
‘Private worship at home is more effective than public worship with others.’ Do you agree? Show that you have considered both sides of the argument. Refer to at least two religions you have studied.
Category 2: Years 8 – 9
Theology
‘Abraham was right to obey God’s command to sacrifice his son (Genesis 22:1-19).
Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer, showing that you have considered both sides of the argument.
Philosophy
‘Civil disobedience cannot be justified without undermining the rule of law.’
Do you agree? Show that you have considered both sides of the argument.
Religion – choose ONE of these titles
‘The Buddha’s most important insight is that humans do not have a soul (anatta).’
Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer, showing that you have considered different interpretations and viewpoints.
2025 Winners
Category 1: Year 6-7
Third Place:
Simran Gill, St Augustine’s Priory, Ealing
Second Place:
Zachariah Chung, Manchester Grammar School
First Place:
Rayyan Kadri Hoosen, Westminster Under School
Category 2: Years 8 – 9
Third Place:
Emily Bristow, Stowe
Second Place:
Stephanie Fischer-Ingles, Kimbolton School
First Place:
Zain Ahmed, Manchester Grammar School