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Religion and Philosophy
At Key Stage 3 Religion and Philosophy aims to develop an enquiring and exploratory approach to ideas. The course is designed to introduce students to both strands of the subject. There is some indepth study of religious beliefs and practices; and some consideration of philosophical questions. Students are encouraged to raise questions, discuss ideas and weigh up arguments.
Key topics and projects
The Year 7 course introduces a range of Religion and Philosophy topics. It starts with ‘Beginnings’, where we study Religion and Philosophy skills, and then take an enquiring look at the stories of creation in Genesis and other cultures. We move on to look at elements of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs and practices, before looking at attitudes to animals. The Summer term ends with project work for the NATRE ‘Art in Heaven’ competition. In Year 8, the main focus is Ethics. Students begin by considering moral choices and values. Then look at Martin Luther King and the civil rights movement. A study of Sikhism focuses on the concept of Sewa. Sin and salvation from the Christian perspective are studied in the lead up to Easter. Students draw the year’s ideas together by looking at justice in the Summer term and finish with a project on the work of Amnesty International. The Year 9, course aims to introduce the students to some philosophical questions and methods. We begin by asking what it is to be human (this is the Core Theme for the IB Philosophy course). Questions about the nature of God and the problem of evil allow students to develop their argument and debating skills. The final module is an enquiry into Islam, which looks at the Five Pillars. For their final project work students can choose from a variety of topics about Islam.
RHS Learner Qualities
It is the nature of the subject to think deeply, analyse ideas, develop explanations and come to conclusions through evaluation. In order to do this there is a focus on discussion so that students consider a wide range of views, some of which may be different from their own. Here there is a need to offer clear and convincing explanations. There is also an emphasis on approaching learning with respect and empathy for the views and traditions of others. When it comes to the challenging ethical and philosophical questions students develop tenacity and perseverance.
Co-curricular
The department runs Philosophy Clubs for Years 7 and 8, and for Years 9 and above. These are informal discussion groups that are generally student led. The groups might raise topical, ethical issues or perennial philosophical questions.
