Religious Studies

Curriculum Lead: Tessa Crotty  

Intent 

At Bridge Learning Campus, Religious Studies is a statutory subject taught across Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4, playing a vital role in shaping well-rounded, culturally aware students. The curriculum is designed to reflect a diverse range of religious and non-religious worldviews, ensuring that pupils engage with the rich variety of beliefs and practices present in modern Britain and the wider world. Through the exploration of ethical questions, philosophical thought, and real-world issues, students are encouraged to think critically, develop empathy, and appreciate different perspectives. Religious Studies at BLC not only supports personal development and mutual respect, but also broadens horizons, preparing learners to contribute positively to a multicultural and ever-changing society: 

1. Knowledge and Understanding: Students will explore major world religions, philosophical concepts, and ethical issues, thereby gaining insight into the cultural contexts that underpin beliefs and practices. 
2. Skills Development: The curriculum is designed to enhance students’ analytical and evaluative skills. They will engage with primary texts, theological debates, and contemporary issues, encouraging them to form and articulate their own views. 
3. Personal Growth and Well-being: By discussing existential questions and moral dilemmas, students will have opportunities for personal reflection, enabling them to develop their identity and moral framework. 
4. Community and Global Awareness: Through the study of various faiths and ideologies, students will cultivate a sense of social responsibility and global citizenship, preparing them for life in an increasingly interconnected world. 

We strive to create a curriculum that is both relevant and engaging, allowing students to appreciate the significance of religion in both historical and contemporary contexts. 

Implementation 

To ensure the effective delivery of the Religious Studies curriculum, our school employs the following strategies: 

1. Curriculum Design: The Religious Studies curriculum is meticulously structured, covering key areas such as: 

• Belief systems and their historical contexts. 
• Interfaith dialogue and the importance of pluralism. 
• Ethical considerations and moral philosophy in a global society. 

2. Adaptive Teaching: We utilise a variety of teaching methods tailored to meet the diverse learning needs of students. This includes interactive discussions, debates, and the use of concept cartoons to enhance engagement. 

3. Opportunities for application: Regular reflective practices, including extended writing and discussions, enable students to connect the subject matter to their personal lives and the world around them. 

Impact 

The impact of our Religious Studies curriculum is evident through various measurable outcomes: 

• Build – A Strong moral foundation and deeper understanding of themselves and others.  
• Respect – By exploring diverse beliefs and traditions, students learn to promote tolerance and empathy. 
• Inspire – Through thought provoking discussions and global perspectives, students are inspired to think critically and compassionately.  
• Dare – Religious Studies encourages learners to dare to question, challenge assumptions, and engage with complex ideas. 
• Graft – With consistent reflection and inquiry, they graft to develop their own informed worldviews. 
•  Empower-  Religious Studies empowers students to become thoughtful, open minded individuals ready to make a positive impact in a diverse society. 

In conclusion, our Religious Studies curriculum is designed to be outstanding by enabling students to explore, reflect upon, and appreciate the multifaceted nature of human belief and behaviour, preparing them not only for academic success but also for life in a diverse and complex world.