Religious Studies

Course Description 

Religion and beliefs inform our values and are reflected in what we say and how we behave. RE is an important subject in itself, developing an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the religions and beliefs which form part of contemporary society. Religious education provokes challenging questions about the ultimate meaning and purpose of life, beliefs about God, the self and the nature of reality, issues of right and wrong, and what it means to be human. It can develop pupils’ knowledge and understanding of the principal religions, other religious traditions and worldviews that offer answers to questions such as these.

RE also contributes to pupils’ personal development and well-being and to community cohesion by promoting mutual respect and tolerance in a diverse society. RE can also make important contributions to other parts of the school curriculum such as personal, social, health, citizenship and economic education (PSHCE education), the humanities, education for sustainable development and others. It offers opportunities for personal reflection and spiritual development, deepening the understanding of the significance of religion in the lives of others – individually, communally and cross-culturally.

RE provides a positive context within which the diversity of cultures, beliefs and values can be celebrated and explored.

• The community within which the school is located – RE provides opportunities to investigate patterns of diversity of religion and belief and forge links with different groups in the local area.
• The UK community – a major focus of RE is the study of diversity of religion and belief in the UK and how this influences national life.
• The global community – RE involves the study of matters of global significance recognising the diversity of religion and belief and its impact on world issues.

Our expectations

RE subject matter gives particular opportunities to promote an ethos of respect for others, challenge stereotypes and build understanding of other cultures and beliefs. This contributes to promoting a positive and inclusive school ethos that champions democratic values and human rights.

Through Religions Education we expect our students to:

• develop their knowledge and understanding of Christianity, other principal religions, and religious traditions that examine challenging questions about the meaning and purpose of life, believes, the self, issues of right and wrong and what it means to be human, fostering personal reflection and spiritual development.
• explore their own beliefs (whether they are religious or non-religious), in the light of what they learn, as they examine issues of religious belief and faith and how these impact on personal, institutional and social ethics; and to express their responses. This also builds resilience to anti-democratic or extremist narratives.
• build their sense of identity and belonging, which helps them flourish within their communities and as citizens in a diverse society.
• develop respect for others, including people with different faiths and beliefs, in order to help to challenge prejudice.

consider their responsibilities to themselves and to others, and to explore how they might contribute to their communities and to wider society. It encourages empathy, generosity and compassion.