The R.E. curriculum area enables students to explore the teachings of different religions and world views, including Christianity, and to address fascinating key questions about the existence of God, the afterlife, authority, beliefs and values and the meaning, purpose and truth in life itself. Lessons help students to develop many important life skills and to develop their understanding of the people and the world in which we live. Through the careful and sensitive consideration of different cultures, belief systems, traditions and moral issues, students learn to understand and respect the similarities and differences that exist within local and global communities.
R.E. helps to develop successful and independent learners by posing life's greatest questions and giving all students the opportunity for self-reflection; to develop their own opinions and beliefs, to respond to contemporary moral and ethical issues, to challenge themselves and to ultimately understand more about themselves and others.
Religious Education is also a rigorous, academic subject, with consistently high expectations for student attainment. Furthermore, as the teaching of R.E. is always unbiased, there is a place for all pupils, of whichever faith or none, in Religious Education lessons.
Please explore these pages to find out more about what we offer.
We aim:
In their Religious Education lessons students will develop their knowledge and understanding of human behaviour and its consequences for other human beings, as well as developing a greater awareness of the world in which we live.
Religious Education not only develops subject specific knowledge as students learn about religions, it also promotes a wider range of skills and attributes, as students learn from religion. Examples of how students may benefit from their R.E. lessons are listed below:
Key Stage 3
All students have one period of Religious Studies in Key Stage 3 in accordance with the Locally Agreed Syllabus and National requirements. Lessons cover a broad range of themes including the environment, animal rights, rights and responsibilities and the nature of authority. The primary religion studied is Christianity, although due consideration is also given to each of the six main world religions and secular viewpoints.
Key Stage 4
At GCSE, students study the WJEC GCSE Specification B, Option B. In Year 9 students study for the Religion and Human Experience Examination which includes:
In Year 10, students study for the Religion and Life Issues Examination which includes:
There is no coursework element to the GCSE Religious Studies course. It is assessed by two examinations, each worth 50% of the total marks.
The R.E. Department understands the rich contribution that learning outside of the classroom can make to a student's education. The Department therefore strives to create enrichment opportunities for students, including a range of Key Stage 3 trips to experience religions in a tangible manner for example cathedrals, Gurdwaras, stately homes and castles. We are currently considering forming a Philosophy for Children Club that encourages younger students to debate and discuss life's ultimate questions. The R.E. Department also provides a range of revision and support classes when required for Key Stage 4 students in order to help students achieve success in their exams. These are usually held at the end of the Academy day and are aimed at encouraging all students to fulfil their academic potential within the subject.