Why We Study Religion & Philosophy

Religious studies at Harris Academy South Norwood allow students to learn about and learn from religions. We want students to gain an appreciation for a variety of religions and worldviews, and to recognise that faith is a journey that impacts every aspect of an individual’s life. The subject aims to instil confidence in students to employ critical thinking in their everyday lives. It will offer exciting opportunities for students to think deeply and attempt questions that do not have a clear or simple answer, breeding curiosity and determination.

The right to withdraw your child from Religious Education:

Parents have a legal right to withdraw their child wholly or partly from Religious Education (RE) if they so wish, as outlined in the School Standards and Framework Act 1998.

Any parent who would like to exercise this right should contact Mr Comerford (Principal) in writing by writing to the Principal's PA (staffordc@harrissouthnorwood.org.uk). The Academy will arrange to discuss their request and the practical arrangements that will apply during RE lessons. While this decision is fully respected, parents are encouraged to be aware that withdrawal may mean their child misses opportunities to develop an understanding of different beliefs, cultures, and worldviews, which play an important role in personal development, mutual respect, and preparation for life in a diverse society. The knowledge and understanding developed in RE is also fundamental to fully understanding many other school subjects such as English Literature, History and Geography. We strongly advise parents to consider carefully whether such a request is in their child's best interests. All faiths and worldviews are respected as part of HASN's RE curriculum.

Religious Education throughout the curriculum:

At key stage 3, all students will study the Academy's Religion and Philosophy curriculum.

At key stage 4, many students choose to study RS GCSE, and all students will follow the "Core RE" curriculum, engaging in a weekly lesson of RE with an RE specialist, which complements those studying GCSE and provides a holistic religion and worldviews education for all students.

At Key Stage 5, the themes and content of Religious Education is explored through the wider SPHERE/tutor programme and assemblies. Events and talks marking key festivals and occasions supplement what students already know about religions and worldviews, and further themes are taught through the Sixth Form SPHERE programme linked to the Academy's wider Sixth Form SMSC provision.

Cross-Curricular Religious Education:

Knowledge about religions and worldviews appears across the curriculum at all key stages, and elements of the domain are explored in subjects including English, History, Geography, Music, Classical Civilisations, Politics, Psychology and more.

What Studying Religion & Philosophy is Like at Harris Academy South Norwood

In Religious Studies lessons, students study a range of religious traditions alongside ethical and philosophical ideas. They engage directly with sacred texts through analysing scripture, exploring how beliefs are interpreted and see how religion is lived out in the real world through case studies and personal accounts.

Students express their thinking through extended writing, particularly essays that require them to argue a position and support it with evidence. Alongside this, discussion plays a central role. Students are expected to listen carefully, respond thoughtfully and develop confidence in speaking about complex ideas.

RS offers a protected space where students can explore difficult questions without fear of judgment. It is a subject that encourages self-reflection while maintaining respect for others at all times. Pupils are given the freedom to question, to mindfully disagree and to think deeply, embracing and developing a culture that values careful listening and thoughtful response.

All Religion & Philosophy curriculum documents appear below: