Religious Studies
“When educating the minds of our youth, we must not forget to educate their hearts.”
Dali Lama.
Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3, all students follow the Lancashire Agreed Syllabus which explores the six major world religions; Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism and Judaism, and the worldview of Humanism. This is done through looking at various themes such as belonging, community and where we find guidance. Students will learn about some of the key beliefs, teachings and practices of these faiths/worldviews, and will develop skills of empathy and understanding. They will also be encouraged to consider the impact these beliefs have upon individuals and societies, and use them as a framework of reference to reflect upon their own beliefs and values, whether these are religious or secular. Pupils will consider logical arguments, data, personal experiences and a range of sources of authority when investigating where knowledge in Religious Studies comes from. As they more through Key Stage 3 and 4, they will begin to evaluate the different ways of knowing by considering their reliability and effectiveness.
Key Stage 4
In Religious Studies at Key Stage Four we follow the Eduqas syllabus for Religious Studies Route A. The two religions students study are Christianity and Islam. This subject consists of examinations only and there is no coursework in this subject.
Component 1 is called ‘Religious, philosophical and ethical studies in the modern world.’ In this topic, students look at issues of relationships, issues of life and death, issues of good and evil, and issues of human rights. Each one is studied through various lenses such as Christianity, Islam, science and Humanism. Students will develop their evaluation skills using religious and moral reasoning, to respond to some of the religious, philosophical and ethical issues in the world today.
Component 2 is the study of Christianity. It is broken down into two parts; Christian beliefs and teachings and Christian practices. Students will explore key beliefs, teachings and practices in Chrsitianity, looking at the diversity within the religion and the impact it has on believers and society.
Component 3 is the study of Islam. It is broken down into two parts; Muslim beliefs and teachings and Muslim practices. Students will explore key beliefs, teachings and practices in Islam, looking at the diversity within the religion and the impact it has on believers and society.
The weighting for the components is:
Component 1 - Religious, philosophical and ethical studies in the modern world - 50%
Component 2 - Christian beliefs, teachings and practices - 25%
Component 3 - Islam beliefs, teachings and practices - 25%.
