Religious Education

As a Catholic school, Religious Education is at the heart of all students’ academic endeavours. Bishop Challoner follows the requirements of the Religious Education Curriculum Directory for Catholic Schools. We aim to empower all students with religious literacy and a sense of their place in this world. Academic studies are shaped in such a way to allow students to develop their understanding of religion but also to reflect upon what it means to have faith and to be spiritual. All lessons are placed in the context of the Catholic faith and are inclusive of the faith journey of each student.

Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)

Students follow “The Way, The Truth and The Life” programme, supplemented with a study of our school community and tradition. They explore the three monotheistic religions from a perspective of key beliefs and practices. Students will be introduced to the academic rigour of Religious Education through the medium of Theology, Philosophy and Ethics. Underpinning this there is always the opportunity for students to explore their own faith and relationship with God and others.

Key Stage 4 – GCSE

AQA Religious Studies Spec B

Programme of study - Year 7
Programme of study - Year 8
Programme of study - Year 9
Programme of study - Year 10
Programme of study - Year 11

Students' main area of focus is the Catholic faith and their GCSE studies will allow them to explore Catholicity in great depth and detail. The topics of Creation, Incarnation, The Triune God, Redemption, Church and Eschatology will be studied. Following this, students will engage with religious, philosophical and ethical issues relating to relationships and families; and peace and conflict. The GCSE also includes a study of Jewish key beliefs and practices. The course is based on the Catholic tradition, however, students are encouraged to reflect upon Christian doctrine in the light of their own faith.

"Catholic education aims not only to communicate facts, but also to transmit a coherent, comprehensive vision of life, in the conviction that the truths contained in that vision liberate students in the most profound meaning of human freedom." Pope John Paul II

Useful Links

KS4 videos
GCSE Exam board information