Year 7
Pupils begin by exploring the origins of the Abrahamic faiths. We then explore the oldest of the Abrahamic religions: Judaism. This allows pupils to deepen their understanding of Judaism as a religion, but also as the foundation of Christianity. Pupils will study Christianity once they have completed their exploration of Judaism.
Year 8
Pupils begin this year by studying the final Abrahamic faith: Islam. They will study its origins, rich history, the beliefs and practices of Muslims, and finally an analysis of what it means to be Muslim in today’s world. Pupils will then study philosophy of religion, exploring themes such as: is there a God? If so, what is God like? We explore theism, atheism and agnosticism. Pupils will consider the Design and Cosmological Argument, as well as the problem of evil and religious experience. Pupils will finish the year exploring the vibrant and fascinating way of life of Hindu Dharma.
Year 9
Pupils begin by studying a topic called ‘Issues of Life and Death’. During this topic, pupils explore how different people make their ethical decisions. By analysing thought provoking hypothetical moral quandaries pupils will begin to evaluate how they make their own moral choices as well as how varying philosophers believe one should try to work out the best course of action in any given situation. After this, pupils will apply their new knowledge to different ethical topics that have troubled mankind for centuries such as capital punishment and the treatment of animals. Following on from this unit pupils will study a topic called ‘Issues of Equality’. Pupils will explore varying historical and modern social issues, reflecting on historical and societal contexts. Pupils will consider religious stances on topics such as racism, sexuality and gender equality.