Religious Studies
Studying religion helps children to understand both themselves and the world around them. Having a thorough knowledge of what makes people different, but what connects them too, moves us past tolerance and into acceptance.
The study of religion prepares you for more than a career, it prepares you for life. As we mark the end of the first quarter of the 21st century, the power of religion to inspire and provoke, unite and polarize remains strong. An understanding of this phenomenon helps explore the most basic questions of our existence. From politics and art to science and war, the study of religion opens a gateway to understanding the world around us. Whether you consider yourself a religious person or not, or whether you think religion has played a positive or negative role in history, it is an incontrovertible fact that from the beginning of time, humans have engaged in activities that we now call religion, such as worship, prayer, and rituals marking important life passages. Moreover, religions have always asked fundamental questions, such as: What is the true meaning of life? What happens to us after death? How do we explain human suffering and injustices?
Key Stage 5
Subject to demand, GCE A Level Religious Studies is also offered.
Students will be encouraged to develop their interest in a rigorous study of religion and belief and relate it to the wider world. They will also develop knowledge and understanding appropriate to a specialist study of religion and an understanding and appreciation of religious thought and its contribution to individuals, communities and societies. The course also fosters an enquiring, critical and reflective approach to the study of religion. Furthermore, through this study they will develop important skills such as to be intellectually confident and use precision in their thinking and writing, the ability to engage with complex texts and the ability to analyse and evaluate arguments as well as constructing and defending their own through critically and logical thinking. Students gain critical and evaluative skills sought by higher education and employers – particularly in law, education, social work, politics, medicine, administration and the media.
All pupils follow a program of statutory RS which is incorporated into our Wednesday morning PSHE program as well as assemblies and other events. If parents and carers wish to withdraw their child from all or part of Religious Studies please contact the subject leader Mr. J Smith jgs@theroyal.school