Religious Studies
RELIGIOUS STUDIES
W H O TA K E S R E L I G I O U S S T U D I E S G C S E ?
‘GCSE Religious Studies was the course I most enjoyed in Year 10 & Year 11.’ ‘The course was fun, relevant and always interesting.’ ‘Religious Studies introduced me to many issues and topics that I had never studied before and prepared me for my degree in Medicine.’ (Quotes from former students)
Anyone who has some curiosity about, interest in and sensitivity to philosophy, religious ideas and ethical issues will enjoy the course. You may be uncertain about what you believe and be open to new insights; you may have strong traditions in your family and firm convictions of your own and wish to study them in depth; perhaps you would rather develop an understanding of unfamiliar beliefs and cultures in order to enhance your career prospects, become a better citizen or travel the world with greater enjoyment.
W H AT I S T H E CO U R S E A B O U T ?
Knowledge of the beliefs, values and traditions of those in your community is key to building a society where everyone is understood and respected. With this in mind, the Religious Studies department offers an exciting course that covers the main issues of Philosophy and Religion as well as Religion and Ethics. The two units you will study cover the following fascinating topics and consider religious teachings, beliefs and attitudes about: • Sex, marriage and divorce • Families and gender equality • Philosophical arguments for and against the existence of God • Religion, violence, terrorism and war • Religion and belief in 21st century conflict • Religion, crime and the causes of crime • Religion and punishment • Human rights
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W H AT W I L L I G A I N F R O M TA K I N G T H E CO U R S E ?
Religious Studies will help you develop marketable skills and aptitudes including: • analytical and strategic thinking; • research skills; • critical judgement; • the ability to work with abstract, conceptual ideas; • an ability to ‘understand both sides’ and negotiate and resolve conflict; • problem-solving skills; • leadership skills; • understanding of the impact of conflicting ideologies; • an appreciation of human diversity, belief systems, cultural and spiritual experiences.
