Religious Education 

Eastern Faiths and Life Philosophies 

Term 1 – Hinduism 

Pupils learn about Hindu beliefs such as karma, dharma, and reincarnation, exploring worship both at home and in temples. 
They study sacred texts, festivals such as Diwali and Holi, and discover how Hindu teachings guide moral living. This colourful and diverse faith helps pupils understand religion as a way of life rather than just a set of rules. 

Term 2 – Buddhism 

Students explore the life of the Buddha and the path to enlightenment. 
They examine Buddhist teachings such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, learning how Buddhists aim to overcome suffering through compassion and mindfulness. Pupils also explore Buddhist symbols, meditation, and festivals such as Vesak. 

Term 3 – Sikhism 

This unit introduces Sikhism, a faith founded on equality, service, and devotion to one God. 
Pupils learn about Guru Nanak and the Ten Gurus, the Khalsa, and the Five Ks. They explore worship in the Gurdwara, the importance of community service, and celebrations such as Vaisakhi. 

Thinking, Questioning and Debating 

Term 1 – Ethics 

Students explore moral questions that affect individuals and society today, including animal rights, the environment, medical ethics, equality, and poverty. 
They learn to express and justify their opinions, considering both religious and non-religious perspectives, and debating whether religion remains relevant in the modern world. 

Term 2 – Philosophy 

Pupils are encouraged to think deeply about life’s big questions: 
Does God exist? Can miracles happen? Is there life after death? 
They study famous philosophical arguments for and against belief in God and develop their ability to form logical, well-reasoned arguments. 

Term 3 – Christianity 

In the final unit, pupils study Christianity in depth — its history, beliefs, and global influence. 
They explore the life and teachings of Jesus, the meaning of the Trinity, and the significance of worship and festivals such as Easter and Christmas. Pupils also consider how Christian beliefs have shaped morality, culture, and community life in Britain and beyond. 

Deepening Understanding of Christianity and Islam 

Terms 1 & 2 – Christianity 

Students begin their GCSE studies by exploring Christian beliefs and practices in depth. 
They study key teachings from the Bible and examine how Christians apply these beliefs in everyday life. 

Beliefs and Teachings 

• The Nature of God: Understanding Christian beliefs about God as omnipotent, loving, and just, using stories such as Creation and the Exodus. 

• The Trinity: Exploring the relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 

• Creation: Studying Genesis and different Christian interpretations (literal and symbolic). 

• Jesus Christ: The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, focusing on incarnation, atonement, and salvation. 

• The Afterlife: Christian beliefs about heaven, hell, and judgement, and how these shape moral decisions. 

Practices 

• Worship and Prayer: Exploring forms of worship (liturgical, informal, and personal) and the significance of prayer. 

• Sacraments: Investigating baptism and the Eucharist and how their meanings vary between denominations. 

• Pilgrimage and Festivals: Studying the importance of Walsingham, Taizé, and festivals such as Christmas and Easter. 

• Christianity in the UK Today: Understanding the Church’s evolving role in British society and local communities. 

• The Worldwide Church: Examining mission, evangelism, reconciliation, and responses to persecution. 

Terms 2 & 3 – Islam 

Students then study Islamic beliefs and practices, learning how they shape Muslim identity, worship, and community life. 

Beliefs and Teachings 

• The Nature of Allah (Tawhid): Exploring Allah’s oneness, mercy, power, and justice, including Adalat in Shi’a Islam. 

• Prophethood (Risalah): Understanding the role of prophets such as Adam, Ibrahim, Isa (Jesus), and Muhammad (the final prophet). 

• Angels (Malaikah): Exploring the role of angels in revelation, nature, and the Day of Resurrection. 

• Akhirah (Afterlife): Studying beliefs about judgement, heaven, hell, and human responsibility. 

• Foundations of Faith: Comparing Sunni and Shi’a beliefs (Six Articles of Faith and Five Roots) and the role of sacred texts. 

Practices 

• The Five Pillars of Islam: Shahadah (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakah (charity), Sawm (fasting), and Hajj (pilgrimage), with a focus on how they are practised in the UK and worldwide. 

• The Ten Obligatory Acts (Shi’a Islam): Including Khums, Amr-bil-Maroof (encouraging good), and Jihad. 

• Jihad: Understanding greater jihad (personal spiritual struggle) and lesser jihad (defending the faith). 

• Festivals: Exploring Id-ul-Fitr, Id-ul-Adha, Ashura, and Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power). 

Religion, Philosophy and Ethics in the Modern World 

Students apply their understanding of religion to moral and philosophical issues that impact modern society. 
They develop critical thinking skills and learn to build balanced, well-reasoned arguments from Christian, Islamic, and secular perspectives (including Humanism and Atheism). 

Term 1 

Theme 1 – Issues of Relationships 

Exploring how religion and society view love, marriage, and family life. 

Theme 2 – Issues of Life and Death 

Examining how religious and non-religious beliefs shape views on the value and purpose of life. 

Term 2 

Theme 3 – Issues of Good and Evil 

Considering moral choices, justice, forgiveness, and the problem of suffering. 

Theme 4 – Issues of Human Rights 

Investigating religious and moral attitudes to equality, justice, and freedom