RS
Religious Studies at The Oxford Academy aims to develop a responsible world citizen by providing religious literacy, knowledge and academic skills through a comprehensive and stimulating curriculum. This is extremely important in our diverse and multicultural school context.
Students acquire knowledge and understanding of religious traditions, beliefs and practices in Great Britain. As a Church of England school, we focus on Christianity. However, as one of the key principles of the Christian faith and our school context, we aim to develop respect, tolerance, compassion, empathy and an open-mind amongst our students towards people of different faiths and beliefs. With this in mind, we explore principal world religions and non-religious worldviews throughout KS3.
Each year in KS3 focuses on Christianity. Year 7 looks at the key stories in the Bible. Year 8 develops on the themes within the Bible. Year 9 looks deeper into the History of the Christian religion and its influence on British society.
The curriculum begins in Year 7 by exploring the purpose of studying RS as well as non-religious worldview - Atheism and Humanism - and the foundations of Philosophy with the likes of Plato and Socrates. In the Summer, we explore Sikhism as a growing religion in the United Kingdom. Year 8 begins with Hinduism and progresses into Buddhism and how Buddhism links to the ancient philosophies of Hinduism. We end Year 8 with the first of the Abrahamic religions - Islam. Year 9 continues with Abrahamic religions by diving into Judaism and how Christianity links to Judaism. Year 9 ends with a greater exploration of Philosophy and Ethics.
Key Stage 4 looks specifically at Christianity and Islam. There is a focus on Christian, Islamic and non-religious ideas on: relationships and families; life; peace and conflict; and human rights and social justice.
RS encourages students to learn from religion and belief by engaging with challenging questions about the meaning and purpose of life, morality, and what it means to be human. It aims to develop students’ skills like critical thinking, reasoned arguments, and the ability to articulate personal responses to religious and moral issues. By helping students understand the influence of religion on individuals, communities, and culture, RS contributes to students’ spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development and prepares them for life in a diverse and modern British society.
In accordance with our belief that we should be accepting of others, parents may withdraw their child wholly or partly from Religious Studies without providing a reason for seeking removal.
Please find the curriculum overview document in the link below.
