Religious Studies
Religious Studies is a vital part of our curriculum, fostering a deep understanding of diverse beliefs, cultures, and values.
This subject encourages students to explore and reflect on the profound questions of life, ethics, and spirituality – promoting empathy, respect, and critical thinking.
Our curriculum aims to provide students with a comprehensive knowledge of world religions, philosophical ideas, and ethical frameworks, preparing them to become informed and compassionate global citizens.
“All pupils need to be taught to understand the complexity of the worldviews they will encounter in their lives, and to develop their own thoughtful and informed worldviews.” The Commission on Religious Education
Year 7 – embarking on an exciting journey
In Year 7, students embark on an exciting journey through the world of religious studies. They begin by exploring the core beliefs, teachings, and practices of five major world religions.
- Islam: Understanding the origins, major prophets, holy books, and the importance of the Ummah.
- Christianity: Exploring the origins, creation story, and key concepts such as the Trinity and resurrection.
- Buddhism: Learning about the origins, the concept of happiness, the Noble Eightfold Path, and the Four Sights of Suffering.
- Judaism: Studying the covenant, founding figures like Abraham and Moses, and the journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.
- Sikhism: Understanding the origins, key figures, the 5 Ks, and the significance of the Gurdwara.
“RE gives children and young people a safe space to explore the big questions of life, helping them to make sense of the world and their place in it.” Dr Joyce Miller, Commissioner on the Commission on Religious Education
Year 8-9 – delving deeper
In Year 8, students revisit Islam and Christianity, delving deeper into their beliefs and practices. They also undertake a detailed study of Hinduism and the life and achievements of Mohandas Gandhi. Key areas of study include Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, philosophy of religion, and human rights and social justice.
In Year 9, students consolidate their understanding of major world religions and apply these beliefs to contemporary ethical and moral dilemmas. The curriculum focuses on: peace and conflict; religion and justice; sex, family, and relationships; and matters of life and death, including discussing ethical issues such as abortion and euthanasia.
“Education should enable young people to understand the world around them and the talents within them so that they can become fulfilled individuals and active, compassionate citizens.” Sir Ken Robinson
Download our Key Stage 4 Religious Studies curriculum overview.