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Religious Studies

Mrs L Cartwright (Head of Department)

For up to date information on KS4 and 5 courses, please see the Options Booklets

  • Key Stage 3

    Year 7

    Terms: 1/2 – Multi-culturalism

    Understanding how, when and why people/communities migrated to Wales/UK.

    Exploring the impact that migration has had on Wales/UK in relation to communities, faith, beliefs etc.

    Our World

    Exploring religious and scientific views of creation.

    Exploring and understanding how and why people show concern and responsibility for the world in which we live.

    Investigating ways in which to improve our local area.

    Term 2 – World religions and humanist beliefs

    An introduction to the beliefs and teachings of the world’s major religions.

    An introduction to Humanism.

    Term 3 – Journey through life

    Understanding what is important and meaningful in our lives.

    Exploring the experiences of people as they journey through life, and how these experiences are acknowledged e.g. through Rites of passage.


    Year 8

    Term 1 – Journeys and Places

    Exploring the significance of places of pilgrimage for religious believers e.g. Varanasi and the River Ganges.

    Understanding the impact of pilgrimage on the lives of believers and the environment around them.

    Term 2 – Anti-Racism

    Exploring why and how we should seek to eradicate racism in our community.

    Identifying key figures who have played a vital role in promoting equality.

    Term 3 – Celebrations

    Exploring key religious festivals such as Christmas, Easter, Hannukah, Passover, Diwali and Eid.

    Identifying similarities and differences between beliefs and practices associated with specific religious festivals.

    Understanding the importance of festivals for religious believers, and the impact they have on their lives.


    Year 9

    Term 1 – GCSE Christianity: Core beliefs, teachings and practices

    The nature of God
    The Trinity
    The birth, life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus
    The Teachings of Jesus

    Term 2 – GCSE Christianity / GCSE Hinduism: Core beliefs, teachings and practices

    The role of the Church
    The Persecution of Christians
    Interfaith Dialogue
    The Sacraments
    The nature of Brahman and the atman
    The Trimurti
    Vaishnavite and Shaivaite traditions
    The importance of Ganesha

    Term 3 – GCSE Hinduism: Core beliefs, teachings and practices

    Worship – Puja
    Pilgrimage
    Changing attitudes to the caste system
    Ashramas (Stages in life) including birth, marriage and death rituals

    Ways in which parents can help:

    1. Check planners to ensure pupils have completed any homework.
    2. Assist pupils with their revision for tests and exams.
    3. Don’t reinforce any prejudices they may have about religion and encourage open minds.

    Useful websites:

    Useful books/magazines/publications:

    • The Encyclopaedia of Religion
    • Current newspapers/magazines

Latest News

Latest School Information

  • School Prospectus

    School Prospectus

    Important information that may be useful for pupils and parents.

  • Newsletters

    Newsletters

    Our school newsletter, ‘The Porthcawl Post’, is published once a term.

  • Notice Board

    Notice Board

    Keep up to date with the latest open evenings, forums and other activities within the school.

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