Religious Education: Key Stage 4 (Optional)

Students will follow the AQA Religious Studies A specification, with topics of Christianity and Islam. 

GCSE Religious Studies has been designed to encourage learners to develop knowledge, understanding and skills to engage in debate and discussion about life in a modern pluralistic society. This includes developing the understanding of non-religious beliefs.  It has an emphasis on critical analysis and the ability to construct balanced and informed arguments with the context of religious, philosophical and ethical awareness

Component 1: The study of religions: beliefs, teachings and practices

This paper requires the study of Christianity and Islam.  Students will learn to recognise and consider the existence and importance of common and divergent views with their chosen religions’ traditions, in the way beliefs, teachings and practices are understood and expressed.  They will explore sources of wisdom and authority that underpin and connect teachings, beliefs and practices as well as how chosen religions influence individuals, communities and societies.

Component 2: Thematic studies

Learners will follow a study of philosophical and ethical debates from a mostly Christian perspective.  It explores key ethical concepts surrounding religion and life issues; religious teachings about violence and conflict, peace and forgiveness; challenges for religion in the modern world and religious attitudes towards Crime and Punishment.