Religious Studies

RE at OIEA promotes balanced and informed conversations about religion, worldviews and our global society.

RE at OIEA shapes pupils into thoughtful, understanding citizens that are aware of the multicultural society in which they live as religion is the foundation of culture, and therefore a study of religion is vital in helping pupils to understand society’s beliefs, morals and values. Religious Education at OIEA teaches students to develop an understanding and respect for different groups within society, the complexity of our world, as well as an interest and appreciation of their beliefs and practices. It encourages pupils to be curious and inquisitive about the deeper philosophical meanings and questions of religions, and enthuses them to reflect on their own personal beliefs, morals and values in a positive, supportive and safe environment.

At KS3 all students are taught one hour a week following schemes of learning that comply with the Derbyshire Agreed Syllabus. The KS3 syllabus reflects the fact that the religious traditions in Great Britain are, in the main, Christian while taking account of the teaching and practices of the other principal religions represented in Great Britain. 

At KS4 as well as having the option for all our students to study a GCSE in RE, both Year 10 and 11 study two blocks of RE, consisting of 6-8 lessons over two half terms during PSHE time. These are delivered by tutors to their tutor groups with lessons in Year 10 focusing on important society issues such as: the environment, prejudice and discrimination, treatment of animals, racism, wealth and charity. In Year 11 lessons students have chance to study a variety of important life issues such as: abortion, euthanasia, capital punishment, IVF, organ donation and transplant surgery.

‘A religion that takes no account of practical affairs and does not help to solve them is no religion.’  Mahatma Ghandi