Religious Studies

“We who lived in concentration camps can remember the men who walked through the huts comforting others, giving away their last piece of bread. They may have been few in number, but they offer sufficient proof that everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms – to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way” – Viktor E. Frankl.

Pupils begin their Year 7 Religious Studies by considering how and why religion began, and considering some of the different forms religion developed into around the world as a result. From this start point, our pupils go on to study Judaism, Christianity and Islam before concluding the year with an exploration of ancient Greek Philosophy. In Year 8, pupils begin by exploring religion’s relationship with myth, they explore common symbols from across religions and myths and consider what this might teach us about the human psyche. They then move on to investigate the role and importance of Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism in the world today. The year concludes with an enquiry into issues raised by environmental ethics. As the pupils progress into Year 9 they are introduced to the fundamental questions raised through the study of Philosophy and Ethics.

The Religious Studies Department always seeks to educate all CHS pupils in their understanding of Religious Faith in a dynamic, enjoyable, meaningful and thought-provoking way. We also provide opportunities to encourage, where appropriate, their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

The Religious Studies Department also offers the popular Philosophy Society, which is led by Sixth Form students and sees lively fortnightly debates. Faith Clubs currently running include Muslim Society and Jewish Society. We offer a trip to Krakow for Year 10, to bear witness to the impact of the Holocaust on the city and its people, this includes a visit to Auschwitz. In the Sixth Form, we offer a trip to Rome, to visit the Vatican and discover more about the Church and its place in the 21st century.

We hope to have encouraged all pupils to think and challenge ideas for themselves through their experiences and learning of Religious Studies in the Lower School.

We offer Religious Studies as an option at both GCSE and A Level. Both courses continue to develop crucial skills and adeptly prepare pupils for further academic study, as well as equipping them with the ability to recognise a variety of perspectives, vital for all areas of life.