Religious Studies forms a key part of our Humanities curriculum. The purpose of our Religious Studies curriculum is for students to know and understand a range of religious and non-religious worldviews and be able to critically engage with those views. Students gain an appreciation for how these worldviews have impacted the world they live in at a local, national and global level.
The aims of the Religious Studies curriculum are:
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to develop religious literacy*;
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to acquire and develop knowledge and understanding of Christianity and the other principal religions and world views represented in the United Kingdom, including secular perspectives;
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to develop an understanding of the influence of the beliefs, values and traditions on individuals, communities, societies and cultures;
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to develop attitudes of respect towards other people who hold views and beliefs different from their own;
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to develop critical and philosophical thinking;
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to develop an understanding of different perspectives in ethical matters;
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to develop the ability to make reasoned and informed judgements about philosophical, religious and ethical issues, with reference to the principal religions and world views represented locally and in the United Kingdom, including secular perspectives.
Religious Studies deals with some of the most profound and difficult questions in human life, such as:
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What is the purpose of life?
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What does it mean to be human?
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What is our identity?
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Is there a God or spiritual aspect to our lives?
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How should people treat each other?
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How do we explain and cope with death and suffering?
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How do we respond to ethical issues and dilemmas?
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How should we treat animals and the environment?
Religions approach these issues in complex ways, in ways of life, culture and action, as well as ritual, tradition, story, symbol and belief. The curriculum aims to take account of this depth and complexity, helping students to an understanding appropriate to their age. Throughout the curriculum, students are encouraged to explore religions and beliefs about the world and human condition, engage with their knowledge, and reflect on their learning and their lives.
Our Religious Studies curriculum has been informed by guidance issued by the Cambridgeshire Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE), and meets the statutory requirements laid out in the agreed syllabus: https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/children-and-families/schools-learning/cambridgeshire-standing-advisory-council-on-religious-education
For further information about the Religious Studies curriculum in KS3, please contact Ms McGowan helen.mcgowan@parksidecc.org.uk
For Religious Studies GCSE, please contact Mr White ed.white@parksidecc.org.uk
Religious education remains statutory (unless withdrawn) post-14, throughout KS4 and into KS5. This requirement is met through the PSHE curriculum at KS4 and KS5. For further information about this, please see the PSHE curriculum area. You can also contact Mr Turner mark.turner@parksidecc.org.uk