Religious Studies

Religious Studies

Rev D A Smith - HoD

Religious Studies (RS) is taught to boys in Years 7-11 on a one period a week basis.

In Year 7 two components are examined:

Component One: The Bible

The aim of this component is to awaken pupils to a greater realisation, appreciation and understanding of the Bible as unique literature and as a vital foundation document for the Jewish and Christian religions. The aim is implemented by a brief general introduction, examination and explanation of the Bible as a complex and fascinating library of many and various types of literature.

Component Two: The Life of Jesus of Nazareth

The aim of this component is to provide a reliable, historical background and framework within which pupils are enabled to appreciate and understand something of the importance and significance of Jesus of Nazareth and the origins of the Christian religion.

In Year 8 pupils are given an introduction to, and brief study of, six major religions of the world: Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Sikhism, Hinduism and Buddhism. The main aim of the course is to awaken pupils to a greater realisation, appreciation and understanding of the world’s major religions.

The aim is implemented by a brief study of:

Origins, Locations, Founders/Prophets, Foundation documents, Major beliefs, Sacred writings, Special places of worship, Special seasons and times, Religious leaders and teachers, Places of pilgrimage, Holy days, Forms of worship, Groups, Sects/Sub-divisions.

The teaching and work undertaken in Years 9, 10 and 11 form a continuous course mainly focused upon contemporary religious and moral issues. Delivery of the course is through debate and general discussion. Relevant newspaper articles, television news coverage, documentaries, films, dramas and soap-operas will often be used to provide and facilitate appropriate examination, discussion and exchange of opinion of subjects under review.

The course provides opportunities for:

spiritual development through helping pupils to consider and respond to questions of meaning and purpose in life, and questions about the nature of values in human society;

moral development through helping pupils to consider and respond to areas of morality using their knowledge and understanding of religious and ethical teaching. This enables them to make reasoned and informed judgements on religious and moral issues;

social development through helping pupils to develop their sense of identity and belonging, preparing them for life as citizens in a plural society;

cultural development through fostering pupils’ awareness and understanding of a range of beliefs, practices and values in their own society and in the wider world. Pupils explore issues within and between faiths, developing their understanding of the cultural contexts within which they live.

The course deals with religious and moral beliefs and values that underpin personal choices and behaviour (eg relationships), social policies and practices (eg crime and punishment), and concepts and patterns of health (eg use of drugs). The course looks at the voluntary and charitable activities that help to make up a healthy society and provide opportunities for the development of active citizenship and involvement in society.

Beliefs about the nature of humanity and the world influence how we organise ourselves and relate to others locally, nationally and globally. Issues in the course therefore contribute to social and political awareness (eg rights and responsibilities).