Religious Education

 WHY STUDY RE?

• RE helps to develop and extend a knowledge, understanding and awareness of life stances and belief systems, which include major World Faiths such as Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Sikhism.
• RE helps to develop a spiritual and moral awareness, and contribute to the search for meaning and understanding in life.
• RE helps to develop a positive self-image in harmony with students' own belief system whilst respecting the right of other people to hold beliefs and values different from their own.
• A GCSE in Religious Studies is considered valuable for 'A' level courses or a career in the caring professions.

WHAT DO STUDENTS STUDY IN RE?

 The Year 7 course begins with an exploration of creation stories. The foundations of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, Islam and Sikhism are examined. The students also study some of the key beliefs and teachings of these religions. Aspects of religious symbolism are explored throughout the course. Aspects of Citizenship covered in this course are outlined on the Schemes of Work.

The Year 8 course examines the life and teaching of Jesus. Pupils explore the denominations in the Christian Church, including differences in religious practices and church architecture. The purpose and uses of religious buildings in other World Religions are also studied, along with the representation of religion in art. Rites of Passage in the major World Religions are investigated. Finally, the impact of religious faith on human action is considered. Aspects of Citizenship covered in this course are outlined on the Schemes of Work. Year 8 students visit Buddhapadipa Buddhist Temple.

The Year 9 course explores in greater depth the relationship between belief and lifestyle. Some of the customs, ceremonies and festivals associated with the main world religions are studied, with a particular emphasis on Easter and Ramadan. The pupils are able to explore beliefs about life after death from a variety of religious viewpoints. The course concludes with a study of morality and moral issues in preparation for Key Stage 4. Aspects of Citizenship covered in this course are outlined on the Schemes of Work.

KEY STAGE 4

All students study the Edexcel GCSE (Short Course) in Religious Studies (3481) in Years 10 and 11. This covers many aspects of Citizenship. Students may also choose to do the full course GCSE Religious Studies, Philosophy and Ethics GCSE (Short Course) in Religious Studies Content of the Course Unit H: A study of Religion and Society from the point of view of Christianity and at least one other religion (Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, and Sikhism). The unit is divided into four sections.