Religious Education Department (RE)
We aim to enrich the academic, social, moral and spiritual life of the school. Pupils are encouraged to think deeply and independently about fundamental and spiritual questions.
The department is made up of the following staff:
- Mrs Holyome
- Miss Huggins
- Mr Hassack
In the last two years Religious Education has become a core subject in the school and is steadily expanding. The subject is compulsory for all children from year 7 – 10. In years 9 and 10 they study a short course GCSE with Edexel in one hour a week. The children are highly motivated and enjoy the discussion and debate on moral issues. In years 7 and 8 the top half of the year group is mixed ability whilst the lower half are setted with classroom support. All are encouraged to attempt GCSE at the end of year 10.
The departmental syllabus is designed to encourage an understanding of religion and a personal reflection by pupils on the ‘big issues’ in life. Pupils form all faith communities and none are accepted equally. The RE department encourages the study of World Religions in an atmosphere of understanding, respect and tolerance. RE lessons are a time of exploration and discovery and provide opportunities for pupils to:
- Explore the religious traditions and reflect upon them
- Develop insight into and respect for the beliefs of other people
- Develop self-awareness
- Recognize their own rights to hold and express religious belief
- Engage in their own search for meaning
All pupils should be given a variety of learning experiences during RE lessons to enable them to see the value and relevance of their work. Active, reflective learning lies at the heart of all our teaching methods.
The RE area consists of well furnished classrooms with high quality displays of children’s work; use of laptop computers, overhead projectors linked to interactive boards are all included. There is also a laptop computer trolley available for classroom use.