Religious Studies

Introduction to Religion, Philosophy & Ethics at Harris Academy Morden

Key Stage Three

The curriculum design is also determined the latest RE research Review on the Religion and Worldviews approach and the National Content Standard for RE, whereby students are taught through a multidisciplinary lens. By multidisciplinary, this refers to the range of academic and analytical approaches and methodologies that the study of religion employs. For example, it may draw on sociological, historical, archaeological, anthropological, philosophical, theological ways of thinking. Students are taught RPE with key concepts and enquiry questions through different religions which are taught with reference to the chronological historical emergence and geographical location to ensure a solid and concise apprehension of religions in Great Britain and across the world. This establishes strong cross-curricular links to History and Geography, and many other subjects. Students will be able to make synoptic links across religions through the in-depth study of the major world religions, the multifarious expressions of faith, and non-religious worldviews. Additionally, it enables students to build towards Key Stage Four if they choose to continue their learning into Religious Studies as a GCSE option where students will undertake an in-depth study of Christianity and Islam. 

Key Stage Four

At GCSE level, students will study the AQA Religious Studies Specification A, the content of which is determined by the Department for Education. Students will undertake a rigorous study of Christianity and Islam which will build their religious literacy alongside their writing, speaking, and listening skills. By studying Religious Studies at GCSE, students are offered the opportunity to inquire into religious, ethical, and philosophical debates, explore and understand the practices and lives of religious believers, grapple with divergent non-religious and ethical viewpoints on sensitive topics, and develop their critical thinking skills. The first thread will be the study of religion: beliefs, teachings, and practices, and the second thread will be a thematic study of the different religious and non-religious attitudes towards four themed topics: Relationships & Families, Peace & Conflict, Crime & Punishment, Religion & Life. Pupils of Religious Studies at GCSE become proficient and confident in using complex and sophisticated vocabulary and evolve into open-minded individuals who have a strong understanding of the world around them and the significance of religious history and theology in today’s globalising world.  

Harris Academy Morden fulfils its statutory requirements to provide Religion & Worldviews at Key Stage Four to all pupils through termly lessons delivered during their tutor contact time and Personal Development (PD) days. All pupils across the school receive assemblies which highlight different religious celebrations and events throughout the year. 

RPE at Harris Academy Morden reflects the fact that pupils growing up in Merton are from highly diverse communities and backgrounds. Therefore, RPE lessons are an excellent place to celebrate and collectively learn from this diversity. The attitudes exhibited by teachers and pupils within RPE lessons, such as commitment, fairness, respect, self-understanding, and enquiry, contribute to the school’s wider ethos and ensure that RPE plays a key role in Academy life and prepares students with the cultural capital needed to navigate an increasingly diversifying and globalised Great Britain.