Philosophy, Religion and Ethics
In the Philosophy, Religion, and Ethics (PRE) Department, we provide a high-quality education that encourages thoughtful exploration of beliefs, values, and ethical issues.
Our curriculum introduces students to the teachings and philosophies of influential thinkers from a wide range of traditions and cultures, helping them learn from religion as well as about it. We foster an environment of respect and open-mindedness, where all perspectives are valued, and students are encouraged to engage in meaningful discussion with curiosity and understanding.
In Key Stage 3, we use a thematic approach to study a variety of topics from six major world religions. Students have the opportunity to research, analyse, discuss, debate and reflect on issues and evaluate different responses to them. They are also encouraged to compare and contrast beliefs and practices, develop critical thinking skills and learn independently as well as in groups.
To enrich and develop their learning, students engage in a diverse range of creative and thought-provoking homework tasks. Year 7 pupils design icons for a competition after studying saints, Year 8 explore Buddhist business principles and traditional Jewish baking, and Year 9 produce powerful personal responses to the Holocaust through art, poetry, literature, and music.
Educational visits further enhance their understanding, including trips to an Orthodox Synagogue, an Anglican Church, and the National Holocaust Centre and Museum.
GCSE Religious Studies
GCSE Religious Studies is an exciting and stimulating course for those wishing to broaden their horizons and understand more about some of the issues facing the world in which we live.
Pupils first study the beliefs, teachings and practices of Christianity and Judaism.
They then look at four ethical themes through the lens of these faiths:
- Religion and life
- Religion and families
- Religion, crime and punishment
- Religion and justice
Throughout the course pupils will develop skills of evaluation, analysis, discussion and structuring arguments, which will be of value in any A Level subject.
As part of the course, Year 11 pupils participate in our annual ethics conference as we welcome a range of speakers into school to consider a range of topics, challenges and current affairs.
Co-curricular Activities
As well as our super-curricular visits, our GCSE students have opportunities after school to study ethical films like Malala and Suffragette.
