The study of Religious Studies will enhance life chances and create more knowledgeable citizens of the world, as well as embedding Fundamental British Values and the Pembroke Values of Generosity, Curiosity, Courage, Wisdom and Passion.

Each module will have a key religious, philosophical or ethical BIG question to answer, which will be linked to the three types of knowledge.

The Importance of Religious Studies

Religious Studies is a fundamental element to understanding humanity in all its forms. With almost six billion people on Earth that consider themselves as part of a religion, the study of its traditions and practices is of paramount importance. Following the publishing of the 2021 Census, we are aware as a community that the belief in a religion is changing, the teaching of Religious Studies parallels this change by allowing students to study religious and non-religious world views. Students will learn about different practices and ways of life in local, national and global contexts. They will discover, explore and consider many different answers to questions about human identity, meaning and value.

The teaching of Religious Studies will equip students to think critically, weigh evidence, develop perspective and argument and be able to discuss with empathy. By following the Religious Studies curriculum all students will understand more about not only religion, but other cultures and belief systems around the world and through history.

Through the study of religion, philosophy and ethics, all students will get an in-depth education of how our society developed, why people like asking questions, and what does it actually mean to be GOOD?

The importance of Religious Studies has been highlighted by the creation of a GCSE cohort for 2023-24, with the intent to continue it as a GCSE option.

Curriculum Aims

Learning in Religious Studies contributes to achievement of the curriculum aims for all young people to become:

• Curious – by studying big questions about religion, philosophy and ethics all students will continually be encouraged to ask questions, challenge perceptions and research other cultures.

• Generous – By gaining an interdisciplinary perspective on issues such as existence, war and happiness, students will develop empathy for changes and issues in their local, national and international communities.

• Wise – by understanding historical, geographical and cultural enquiries; students will be able to critically assess their personal views and opposing views. These will follow the framework of ensuring that students are able to use: ‘substantive’ knowledge, ‘ways of knowing’ and ‘personal knowledge’.

• Passionate – all students will find something to be passionate about in their religious studies lessons, with the ability to discuss and debate topical issues, whilst also seeing how Britain (and the world) has been influenced by religious, philosophical and ethical debates.

• Courageous – by engaging with Religious Studies students will have the courage to be involved in discussion and debate, whilst having the courage to follow their dreams and pursue their life goals.