Religious Education
Key Stage 3
The Bishops’ Conference Department for Catholic Education and Formation outlines curriculum guidance for religious education. In order to meet these requirements at key stage 3 the students at St Mary's follow the specification "The Way, The Truth and The Life" .This specification enabes students to explore the mystery of the person of Jesus Christ from a Catholic perspective which is also sensitive to other Faith positions.The curriculum is designed to educate the whole person; to stretch them spiritually, morally as well as academically.It offers a variety of educational learning approaches which challenge the students to reflect, respond and engage with the ultimate questions of life.
GCSE Religious Studies
The course offered at St Mary's is the Edexcel Religious Studies. The two modules studied are:"Religion and Life based on a study of Roman Catholic Christianity" and "Mark's Gospel". The final grade is achieved by taking examination papers in these two areas .
A Level and General RE
Students follow the AS/A2 OCR specification in Religious Ethics and Religious Philosophy. Religious Ethics consists of a study of ethical theories and their application in the areas of medicine,war, environment, business and relationships.Students find the academic stetch and rigour of this course very enriching and stimulating; it gives them significant insight into the source of moral thinking as well as introducing them to the nuances and skills of ethical debate and decision making. Philosophy of Religion is equally engaging and stretching; this course offers students the opportunity to explore life’s great religious and theological questions: the existence of God, the challenges of science and psychology, the problem of evil and much more.
This is one of the most popular A levels within the school and draws many from the sixth form.A significant number of the students continue further study at universities such as: Oxford, Manchester, St Andrews, Edinburgh and Durham . The subject is enriched by a theological society and additional lectures.
General RE in the Sixth Form
All students are required to follow a General RE course in the sixth form.This is a non examined course which explores the interface between psychology and religion, social justice and other contemporary issues facing religion. This course is well recieved by all students and provodes valuable enrichment to their studies.
Outlines of these courses are set out in the Department Handbook.
