KS4 - Religious Studies

Year 10 Religious Studies (Core - for all)

In Year 10, our Religious Studies curriculum pivots toward crucial contemporary issues that shape our modern world, preparing students to engage thoughtfully with the diverse society around them. Students will delve into the complex world of medical ethics, exploring deeply personal and challenging debates surrounding the sanctity of life, modern medical technologies, and end-of-life care. They will also examine the dynamics of community cohesion, investigating how multicultural societies foster unity, combat prejudice, and build bridges across different faiths and beliefs. Finally, through the lens of religion and society, students will analyze how religious beliefs actively influence contemporary laws, social justice movements, and public life. This rigorous course of study equips students with the empathy, critical thinking, and ethical awareness needed to navigate and contribute positively to a rapidly changing global landscape.

GCSE Religious Studies (Years 10 & 11 - for those who choose it as a GCSE option)

Following the AQA Religious Studies A Specification, our two-year GCSE course provides a comprehensive and rigorous study of faith, ethics, and philosophy. The curriculum is structured sequentially to ensure students build a strong foundational knowledge before tackling complex thematic debates.

Year 10: Beliefs, Teachings, and Practices

In Year 10, the focus is entirely on Component 1: The Study of Religions. Students undertake an in-depth study of the core beliefs, teachings, and practices of two major world religions. This foundational year ensures students have the deep theological understanding necessary to approach ethical issues later on.

Christianity: Students explore foundational Christian beliefs about God, creation, the afterlife, and Jesus Christ. They will also look at how these beliefs are expressed through practices such as worship, sacraments, pilgrimage, and the role of the church in the local and worldwide community.
Islam: Students investigate the core teachings of Islam, including the nature of Allah, prophethood (Risalah), holy books, and angels. They will also study the differing perspectives within Islam (Sunni and Shi'a) and examine core practices, including the Five Pillars of Islam and the Ten Obligatory Acts.

Year 11: Religious, Philosophical, and Ethical Studies

In Year 11, the curriculum shifts to Component 2: Thematic Studies. Students apply their understanding of religious and secular worldviews to four contemporary ethical and philosophical themes:

Relationships and Families: Investigating changing attitudes toward marriage, cohabitation, divorce, and family structures, alongside ethical issues surrounding gender equality and relationships.
Religion and Life: Exploring scientific and religious theories on the origins of the universe and life, environmental ethics, and profound moral debates regarding the sanctity of life (including abortion and euthanasia).
Religion, Peace, and Conflict: Analyzing the causes of war, concepts of justice and pacifism, the morality of weapons of mass destruction, and the vital role of faith in peacemaking and reconciliation.
Religion, Crime, and Punishment: Examining the reasons behind criminal behavior, the varying aims of punishment (such as deterrence, retribution, and rehabilitation), and the ethical arguments surrounding the death penalty and forgiveness.

Skill Development

Subject Specific Skills:

Apply knowledge and understanding of two religions
Apply knowledge and understanding of key sources of wisdom and authority including scripture and/or sacred texts, where appropriate, which support contemporary religious faith
Understand the influence of religion on individuals, communities and societies
Understand significant common and divergent views between and/or within religions and beliefs
Apply knowledge and understanding in order to analyse questions related to religious beliefs and values
Construct well-informed and balanced arguments on matters concerned with religious beliefs and values set out in the subject content.
Develop their knowledge and understanding of religions and non-religious beliefs, such as atheism and humanism
Reflect on and develop their own values, belief, meaning, purpose, truth and their influence on human life

Wider Academic Skills / Attributes:

Reflect on and develop their own values, beliefs and attitudes in the light of what they have learnt and contribute to their preparation for adult life in a pluralistic society and global community.
Use of a variation of sources of evidence to support arguments and discussions.
Interpreting the impact and role of religion and beliefs in society.
Developing extended writing skills.
Using study skills and revision techniques to prepare for extended writing exams.

Personal Development - SMSC & Cultural Capital (Opportunities / Experiences)

SPIRITUAL -Explore beliefs and experience; respect faiths, feelings and values; enjoy learning about oneself, others and the surrounding world; use imagination and creativity; reflect.
MORAL -Recognise right and wrong; respect the law; understand consequences; investigate moral and ethical issues; offer reasoned views. Evaluating beliefs, ideas and world views.
SOCIAL - Use a range of social skills; participate in the local community; appreciate diverse viewpoints; participate, volunteer and cooperate; resolve conflict; engage with the 'British values' of democracy, the rule of law, liberty, respect and tolerance. Exploring diverse opinions and the impact of this on community cohesion.
CULTURAL - Appreciate cultural influences; appreciate the role of Britain's parliamentary system; participate in culture opportunities; understand, accept, respect and celebrate diversity.
Explore historical religious links to the local community.
Engagement with local faith groups.
Using local examples to link learning to personal experience.
Ethical and moral links – exploring issues such as family life, conflicts and personal moral opinions.
Raising awareness of current affairs and making links to their own opinions and the beliefs of others.
Respect for persons of faith and people from varying communities, traditions and religions.
Artistic expression of the spiritual.