As in all schools, Religious Studies is a statutory core subject and is taught to all students from Yrs. 7-11.
Students follow a full GCSE (AQA) course starting in Yr. 9 and have one lesson a week. Examinations take place at the end of Yr. 11. This GCSE concentrates on moral and ethical issues such as the Environment, Animal Welfare, Prejudice and Discrimination, Abortion and War. Students in Yrs. 7 and 8 prepare for GCSE by following other AQA strands which concentrate on Christianity and Buddhism. Topics here include Science and Religion, Miracles, Religious Experience, Religious symbols, Art and Architecture and Holy Books.
The Religious Studies Department is fortunate to have experienced specialist teachers, supplemented from time to time by a small group of committed and experienced non-specialists. There is no expectation that students have any religious background or commitment, nor do we seek to foster any faith stance. It is our aim that our students develop core skills of empathy, understanding and the ability to critically evaluate. It is not possible to critically evaluate without understanding but to understand does not imply agreement or acceptance and R.S. lessons are often characterised by lively debate and discussion. We absolutely deal with the big questions.