Religious studies/Philosophy & ethics

Head of Department: Mr P.S. Warr (BA (Jt. Hons.), PGCE, Cert. Ed (TESOL))

Key Stage 4

Students in Years 10 prepare to do battle with the beliefs of classical theism. The challenge comes in the form of science versus religion, the problem of evil, revelations, miracles and immortality. Year 11 concentrates on equally challenging subjects; euthanasia, fertility treatments, drugs and poverty to name but a few!) Tapping into the beliefs and ideas of the pupils is paramount and all pupils are encouraged to engage freely in the discussions without fear of embarrassment or ridicule.

Key Stage 3

In Key Stage 3, we study a variety of topics ranging from classic Biblical figures and the foundation of Judaism in Year 7, moving on to leaders (both good and bad!) in Year 8. This provides pupils the opportunity to discuss leadership qualities. Was Hitler a good or bad leader, or was he a good leader but a bad person? The life of Jesus is discussed in some detail, along with discussions as to the claims of his divinity. Year 9 concentrates on beliefs, both pupils’ and those of religious believers throughout the world. Pupils then cover more sensitive issues relating to the problem of evil with teaching based on the holocaust and other acts of genocide. .