Religious studies

Religious studies is taught throughout the school by specialist staff. At present the department consists of one full time and two part time religious studies teachers.

The aims of the department are:

  • To understand the contribution of religion to human culture, particularly through the Christian heritage of this country whilst recognising the contribution of world religions to our society;
  • To promote the capacity to make well informed judgements concerning religious beliefs and alternatives to such belief systems;
  • To consider religious, ethical, philosophical and cultural responses to contemporary issues;
  • To identify, investigate and respond to fundamental questions of life raised by religion and common human experience.

The syllabus at The Queen’s School prioritises ‘learning about religion’ and ‘learning from religion’ but the emphasis in learning about religion is on key concepts and worldviews rather than the outward symbols and daily practice of a religion. For example, rather than concentrate on topics such as learning the features of a mosque, students analyse and evaluate the key features of shari’ah law and Islamic societies.

Wherever appropriate, links between philosophy, religion, ethics and wider culture are highlighted, and students are encouraged and expected to recognise and evaluate the relationship between religion, philosophy, ethics and culture. Religious studies is compulsory in years 7-9. The subject is offered as a GCSE option in years 10 and 11, and is also available for study at A-level. Our results are excellent and pupils continue on to university to study subjects such as medicine, biological sciences, philosophy, theology, English literature and mathematics.

Year 7: Introduction to Religion; The Life of Jesus; Spirited Arts Competition.

Year 8: A Study of Buddhism; A Study of Islam; A Study of Judaism.

Year 9: Prejudice and discrimination; arguments for the existence of God; Spirited Arts Competition.

GCSE
At GCSE level the pupils take examinations in moral issues, philosophy, Christianity and Islam at the end of Year 11.

Advanced Level
At A-level pupils study ethics including Utilitarianism, Situation Ethics, Free Will and Determinism and Virtue Ethics; philosophy of religion including religion and psychology, religious experience, religious language; Christianity including evidence for the virgin birth and resurrection, feminist theology, predestination.
 

What our pupils say about RS:

"RS isn’t like other subjects where you’re expected to know the answer; instead you are expected to ask the question. It makes you think much more about the world"

"RS helps us to develop our own faith as well as learning about what others believe. My favourite subject"

"RS is unique in that it helps you to formulate your own opinions whilst teaching you to be tolerant of others."

"At last! A subject we can actually look forward to! The A-level course is both informative and enjoyable"

"RS is really interesting and the teachers are very helpful and inspirational."