What you will learn

This is an exciting course which introduces students to many contemporary and relevant ideas for discussion, whilst combining these with an in depth study of the world’s two largest religions.

There are two components: The study of religions: Beliefs, teachings and practices (Christianity and Islam), and Thematic Studies evaluates a range of traditional and modern ethical and philosophical issues and debates.

Within Christianity, students will cover key beliefs including the nature of God, Jesus & salvation, creation and beliefs about an afterlife. The ways in which Christians worship and the significance of the festivals, including prayer, structure of worship and features of differing denominations will also be explored.

Within Islam the students will cover key beliefs including the six articles of faith in Sunni Islam, tawhid, the nature of God, predestination and the importance of authority including prophethood and holy books.

In Thematic Studies, students will study four themes; including - but not restricted to - the following topics:

(1) Religion and Life (the use & abuse of the environment, animal rights, abortion, euthanasia)

(2) Religion, Human rights and Social Justice (prejudice & discrimination, exploitation, wealth & poverty, religious charities)

(3) Religion, Peace and Conflict (the Just War Theory, holy war, jihad, pacifism)

(4) The existence of God and revelation (enlightenment, miracles, atheism, evil & suffering).

This course provides all those who study it a dynamic and engaging world view, whether that be through gaining a deeper understanding of their own faith or of a totally new way of viewing the world. The study of Christianity and Islam gives them a deep understanding of the religious beliefs and practices of nearly 4 billion people, over half of the world’s population. This religious and cultural understanding would aid any student seeking employment in the emerging economies in Asia, Western Africa and South America. This GCSE will prepare the students for not only for their A-Level studies but also for the progression into adulthood. It allows them the opportunity to study and explore many of the pressing questions found in today’s world in a safe environment, where they are encouraged to examine ahead of finding their own way through life. The Thematic units provide students with a range of early expertise on some cultural, historical, legal, medical, moral, political and social issues, which they will be able to take forward to higher education.