Religion and World Views

Overview

Religion and World Views is a subject for students of all faiths and none at all. Regardless of belief, creed or background, every student at West Lakes is challenged and encouraged to reflect upon their beliefs, identify their values, examine their identity and form their own view of what it is to be a citizen of the world. Religious education poses challenging questions about the ultimate meaning and purpose of life, beliefs about God, the nature of reality, issues of right and wrong and what it means to be human. It enhances pupils’ awareness and understanding of religions and beliefs, teachings, practices and forms of expression, as well as of the influence of religion on individuals, families, communities and cultures. Religion and World Views encourages students to explore their own beliefs and questions of meaning. It challenges students to analyse and evaluate issues of truth, values, belief, faith and ethics and to communicate their responses.

It helps students to develop their sense of identity and belonging; to flourish individually and as citizens in a pluralistic society and global community, promoting inclusion and combating prejudice.

Religion and World Views helps prepare students for adult life, employment and lifelong learning by promoting respect for and sensitivity to those whose beliefs are different from their own.

Key Stage 3

Year 7 – Our new students will focus on the skills of learning about and from the six main religions: Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Sikhism. One theme every half-term is explored: Identity (Who we are and what makes us unique), A non-religious approach –Humanism, Belonging (What it means to be a faith community), Discovery (The life of Jesus), Commitment (Rites of Passage), Celebration (Festivals) and Reflection (How does faith lead to action?)

Year 8 – Students will expand upon their previous learning and tackle six new themes relating to the effect of religious and cultural action upon the world: Believing (Aspects of faith), Authority (being a good moral leader), Spirituality (what it is to experience the divine), Community (a critical look at modern Islam), Responsibility (what our role in the world is) and Enlightenment —a full 6-week project of the pupils’ own choosing.

Post 16

We are offering students in our sixth form the option of studying AQA A Level Philosophy.