Religious Education

Curriculum Intent

RE: Philosophy and Ethics is an absolutely vital subject of study in a country that has seen the cultural and religious landscape shift so much over the last fifty years. In an increasingly pluralistic and diverse society, understanding a variety of attitudes towards the world, our place within it and our responsibilities to it and each other are absolutely essential. Perspectives on the nature of the divine and the nature of reality, from both a religious and non-religious perspective shape our society, and it is crucial that young people understand a multitude of different worldviews and backgrounds  ̶  as well as their own.

In terms of gaining a GCSE qualification the subject is now exclusively an option choice. The GCSE curriculum allows young people to appreciate and understand the beliefs and practices of Christianity and Islam alongside a series of thematic studies based around ethical moral issues.

RE: Philosophy and Ethics is also studied as a core subject throughout KS4 for those who do not select to sit the GCSE. This ensures that all Alderbrook students are taught vital knowledge that allows them to take their place in an increasingly globalised world, to increase inter-faith understanding and to deepen their self-knowledge and personal and spiritual development.

 

Implementation

Key Stage 3

Year 7

All the groups in Key stage 3 are mixed ability.

The curriculum is based upon the requirements of Solihull SACRE.

In year 7 students look at the following BIG questions:

  • Where do we look for God?
  • How did religions start?
  • Why Jesus is called Saviour?
  • How do Christians apply Bible texts to the world today?
  • What does it mean to experience awe and wonder?
Year 8

In year 8 students look at the following:

  • Is caring for people more important than caring for the environment?
  • Why do people worship in different ways?
  • Why is Muhammed important to Muslims?
  • How far is suffering caused by human action?
  • Where do I fit into my community/ faith community?

For each module in key stage 3, the pupils’ books are marked at least once each half term, and there are also one or more paper-based assessments during each half term which are marked.

Key Stage 4

All Key Stage 4 groups are mixed ability.

Examination Board:   AQA

The Syllabus will cover:

  • Christian Beliefs
  • Christian Practices
  • Muslim Beliefs
  • Muslim Practices
  • Religion, Peace and Conflict
  • Religion, Relationships and Families
  • Religion, Crime and Punishment
  • Religion, Human Rights and Social Justice

All pupils follow the course as it is compulsory. The religious education at Alderbrook complies with the 1944 and 1988 Education Acts, and amendments. It is taught in line with the statutory Solihull Agreed Syllabus 2008, and the syllabus specification which we follow is fully mapped in line with this. The teaching of religious education also follows the Governors’ Policy for Religious Education. The school teaches the subject in a non-confessional way, giving dignity, respect and integrity to each of the world religions studied. 

Key Stage 5

Exam Board: Edexcel
Why A-Level Politics?

Politics is everything. From our daily interactions to military invasions and nuclear deterrents. Politics is about power. Politics A-Level is about understanding the root of that power and how Government policies on education, healthcare and civil liberties are made.

Youth engagement in Politics in the UK is an issue. It has been estimated that only 36 per cent of people in the 18 – 24 year old category voted in the EU referendum, yet it is that age group that will be most impacted by the vote. Politics A-Level is part of the remedy to this disengagement.

By investing in Political debate and keeping abreast of current affairs students will develop key communication and research skills and analytical skills will be honed as students evaluate political concepts and arguments from competing and sometimes controversial perspectives.

What will you study?

Politics A-Level covers a wide range of content, from the very basics of the UK political system and voting patterns, to the grander ‘Beacon of Democracy’ that is the political system of the USA. The competing ideologies and thinkers that have shaped these systems are considered in detail against the backdrop of current affairs as the Political landscape changes around us during the course.

University degrees that require or often prefer Politics include:

Politics, History, Classics, English Literature, Economics, Media, Journalism, Travel and Tourism, Law, Psychology and Sociology.

Entry requirements:

Minimum 6 grade in English Language or grade 6  in History where applicable.

 

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

Pupils have the opportunity outside the classroom to discuss aspects of their work which concern them.

Year 11 students are welcome to attend a study session on a Tuesday after school.

 

Skills for Success and Career Opportunities

GCSE RE helps students develop many skills. These include; understanding, empathy, evaluation, analysis, reflection, expression, interpretation and investigation.

In terms of vocational pathways, the course is seen as a good introduction to issues which affect all human beings and human thought processes. Past students have gone on to Oxbridge, the Russell Group and have gone on to such careers as doctors, dentists, solicitors, barristers, teachers and even rock musicians. Careers which have specifically identified religious education as being a desirable subject, and into which past students have progressed, include: the police, the armed forces, the civil service, banking, social services, local government and retail management.

 

Contact the Head of Department

For further information, please contact Alison Badger.