Religion, Philosophy and Ethics
Vision
Our vision for the Religion, Philosophy and Ethics Department is to develop thoughtful, respectful, and reflective young people who can understand diverse beliefs, question ideas with confidence, and express their own views with clarity and empathy. By the time students leave school, they will be critical thinkers who engage thoughtfully with moral and philosophical issues, value difference, and apply ethical reasoning to real-world situations, preparing them to be active, informed, and compassionate citizens.
Curriculum Overview
Religion, Philosophy and Ethics are vital subjects within a school curriculum. The curriculum is designed around these three concepts allowing students to show an understanding of beliefs and practices, as well as the impact of these beliefs and perspectives linked to key themes. Students study the six major world religions, as well as some key Philosophical and Ethical dilemmas.
At Key Stage 3, students build strong foundations in Religious knowledge and skills. They learn how to analyse religious sources, evaluate interpretations and construct well-evidenced arguments. The curriculum introduces students to key questions designed to promote discussion and debate. Lessons provide opportunity for reading and extended writing, helping students gain confidence in expressing their ideas both verbally and in writing.
In Year 7, the focus is on developing understanding of how history connects the largest religion in the world. Students will understand the link between Judaism and Christianity. Students will explore key questions such as what does it mean to be British? And why does suffering happen to good people? Both from Humanist and a Buddhist perspective,
In Year 8, students deepen their understanding of the link between History and religion by learning about the beliefs and practices of Islam and its connection to other Abrahamic religions. Students will begin to make more developed judgements and express the impact that beliefs have on actions. Students will explore key questions such as does it matter how I behave? In this topic they will explore both short term and long -term consequences for behaviour, both in this life and the next.
By Year 9, students will have explore the 6 major world religions and will focus on applying this knowledge to topical issues, such as Should we fight for equality and justice? And should we hate the sin but love the sinner? Students will learn to analyse different perspectives in greater depth and develop the confidence to justify their views using precise evidence, preparing them for GCSE study.
At Key Stage 4, students study GCSE Religious Studies, where they further refine their analytical, evaluative and extended writing skills. They explore a range of themes related to the modern world. Students are supported to think critically, revise effectively and articulate sophisticated arguments under exam conditions.
Throughout their journey, Religion, Philosophy and Ethics nurtures key transferable skills including critical thinking, literacy, empathy, resilience and independent learning. Students learn to question information, recognise bias and understand how people’s actions are driven by core beliefs.
