Religious Studies

Aims

  • To inspire pupils by following a broad, satisfying and worthwhile course of study that will challenge and equip them to become autonomous individuals.
  • To develop their interest in and enthusiasm for the study of religion, and relate it to the wider world.
  • To adopt an enquiring, critical and reflective approach to the study of religion.
  • To reflect on and develop their own values, opinions and attitudes in light of their learning.
  • To explore religions and beliefs, broadening their knowledge and understanding.
  • To enhance their spiritual and moral development.
  • To enhance their personal, social and cultural development, along with their understanding of different cultures locally, nationally and in the wider world, so that they may contribute to social and community cohesion.

Staffing

Mrs Haslam (Head of Department)
Mr Barr
Mr Brown
Mr Harding

Subject Overview

We live in an increasingly multi-faith, multi-cultural and secular society.  Through Religious Studies, we provide opportunities for pupils to explore different faiths and ethical issues.

At Glenlola Collegiate School all pupils study Religious Studies throughout Key Stage 3 and 4.  Pupils can then choose to study Religious Studies at AS and A2 Level.

Religious Studies is uniquely placed to develop a range of skills and capabilities in preparing pupils for life and work:

DECISION MAKING with regard to the ‘big questions of life’ and ethical choices.

COMMUNICATION with others showing respect, tolerance, sensitivity and empathy.

A SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY through self-awareness to enable individuals to become contributors to society.

Key Stage 3

All pupils in Years 8-10 have one, one-hour lesson a week.  We aim to help the pupils gain an understanding of the world in which we live through introducing them to the 3 major world religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, their belief systems, practices and contribution to the modern world.  Pupils are then enabled to see the connections between belief and life through studying issues and individuals such as William Wilberforce and slavery and Amy Carmichael and Human Trafficking.

Key Stage 4

At GCSE level pupils build on the foundation laid at KS3 through studying the modules of “The Revelation of God and the Christian Church” (Unit 3) and “An Introduction to Christian Ethics” (Unit 6).

Skills such as time management, managing information, critical thinking, working with others, decision making and becoming independent learners are developed across the units.

GCSE Specification

Key Stage 5

We aim to further develop skills in independent learning, critical thinking and the ability to communicate clearly and effectively at A Level.  Pupils also see connections between their learning and the world in which they live.

Pupils will follow the CCEA specification, studying:

AS LEVEL

AS 2: The Acts of the Apostles

AS 6: An Introduction to the Study of Islam

A2 LEVEL

A2 2: Selected Themes in Paul’s Letters

A2 6: Islam in a Contemporary Context

http://www.rewardinglearning.org.uk/microsites/religious_studies/

GCE Specification

Career Opportunities

Religious Studies develops skills such as communication, managing information, critical thinking and showing empathy.

These skills can lead onto studying in further or higher education in a range of areas and potential careers such as:

  • Counselling
  • Ministry
  • Community Work
  • Nursing
  • Social Work
  • Human Resources
  • Police
  • Solicitors
  • Journalism
  • Psychotherapy
  • Teaching
  • Law
  • Publishing
  • Youth Work