Religious Studies and Philosophy
Religious studies is taught throughout the school by specialist staff. At present the department consists of one full time and one part time religious studies teachers.
The aims of the department are:
- To understand the contribution of religion to human culture, particularly through the Christian heritage of this country whilst recognising the contribution of world religions to our society;
- To promote the capacity to make well informed judgements concerning religious beliefs and alternatives to such belief systems;
- To consider religious, ethical, philosophical and cultural responses to contemporary issues;
- To identify, investigate and respond to fundamental questions of life raised by religion and common human experience.
The syllabus at The Queen’s School prioritises ‘learning about religion’ and ‘learning from religion’ but the emphasis in learning about religion is on key concepts and worldviews rather than the outward symbols and daily practice of a religion. For example, rather than concentrate on topics such a learning the features of a mosque, students analyse and evaluate the key features of shari’ah law and Islamic societies.
Wherever appropriate, links between philosophy, religion, ethics and wider culture are highlighted, and students are encouraged and expected to recognize and evaluate the relationship between religion, philosophy, ethics and culture. Religious studies is compulsory in years 7-11. Years 10 and 11 study one module per year as part of their PSE programme. The subject is offered as a GCSE option in years 10 and 11, and is also available for study at AS and A level. Pupils who take religious studies at AS and A Level follow the AS and A Level Philosophy course at the same time. Our results are excellent and pupils continue on to university to study subjects such as medicine, biological sciences, philosophy, theology, English literature and mathematics.
Programmes of Study
Year 7
Introduction to Religion; The Life of Jesus; A Study of Christianity
Year 8
A Study of Buddhism; A Study of Islam; A Study of Judaism
Year 9
Ultimate Questions; An introduction to Ethics; Introduction to Philosophy
At GCSE level the pupils take examinations in moral issues and philosophy. At AS and A2 level pupils study ethical theory, ethical dilemmas, religion and psychology, arguments for the existence of God and religious fundamentalism.
Results
The department’s results for 2009 were excellent. At GCSE 100% of candidates gained an A* grade. At AS 100% gained an A or B grade, whilst at A2 level 86% of pupils gained an A or B grade. This puts the results much higher than similar schools in the country.
What our pupils say about RS
’RS isn’t like other subjects where you’re expected to know the answer, instead you are expected to ask the question. It makes you think much more about the world’ Kate and Tabatha
‘RS helps us to develop our own faith as well as learning about what other’s believe. My favourite subject’ Rachael
‘RS is unique in that it helps you to formulate your own opinions whilst teaching you to be tolerant of others.’ Libby and Rachel
‘At last! A subject we can actually look forward to! The GCSE course is both informative and enjoyable’ Sally, Fiona, Harriet
‘RS is really interesting and the teachers are very helpful and inspirational.’ Emily
