There is the required teaching of Religious Studies in Year 12/13 also but only those taking the A Level will sit an examination in the subject. We teach about belief and faith but there is no expectation of such on the pupil’s behalf. All faiths and belief systems are treated with respect and courtesy so theists, atheists and agnostics may feel comfortable and valued within the lessons.

 

We seek to enable pupils to make links between religious and secular thought, to interpret and express insights, to show coherent and understanding of faiths and evaluate them, to analyse belief and justify their views. The top pupils will be able to show in depth analysis, give independent, well informed and highly reasoned insights and provide well-substantiated and balanced conclusions. We use the Warwickshire agreed syllabus for Religious Studies for assessment. This enables us to review and enable pupil progression effectively.

Year 7 (Two full lessons per week).

Topics: Big Questions, Sanatan Dharma (Hinduist traditions), Jewish traditions, Islam, Sikhi, and Thematic Study

Year 8 (Three full lessons per fortnight).

Topics: Buddhist traditions and Christianity. Thematic study and application of religion. 

 

In Years 9 and 10, students continue to develop their understanding of Religion and Philosophy (RP) by exploring a broad range of ideas that encourage critical thinking, reflection, and respectful dialogue. The curriculum introduces students to Humanism and examines the human condition, considering questions about happiness, success, purpose, and what it means to live a good life. Students also engage with the Curiosity Spirited Arts programme, which promotes creativity, enquiry, and interdisciplinary thinking. Alongside this, they study key philosophical traditions from the ancient, medieval, modern, and political worlds, developing the skills to analyse arguments, evaluate different perspectives, and apply philosophical ideas to contemporary issues.

 

One lesson per week.

 

We follow the AQA examination board GCSE in Religious Studies. This compares issues within society and Life with Religious beliefs. We consider the beliefs and practises of the Christian and Buddhist faiths as a matter of course. Pupils learn how religious believers consider such things as crime, relationships, life and death, human rights and justice. We consider secular concepts too to try and ensure a balance of view and understanding. Each class has three lessons over two weeks in years 9, 10 and 11. 

They will sit the examination at the end of year 11.

 

Religious Studies GCSE (full course) Specification: Specification A (8062)

 

Website:http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/religious-studies/gcse/religious-studies-a-806  

 

Textbook: AQA GCSE (9-1) Religious Studies Specification A

 

Exams: There are two examinations. Component 1: A Study of Religion (Christianity and Buddhism) Component 2: Thematic Studies

Three lessons per week.