Devonport High School For Girls
Religious Studies
Head of Department
Mrs J Rhead, BSc(Hons), PGCE
Statement of Intent
At DHSG, our RS curriculum aims to promote an open and understanding community by encouraging students to explore fundamental questions about life’s purpose, beliefs about God and ultimate reality, morality, and human identity. It enables students to learn about a variety of religious and non-religious worldviews in both local and global contexts, helping them develop their own values and identities while promoting respect for diverse perspectives. Furthermore, it aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to reflect on and engage with questions raised by religion and worldviews, enabling them to articulate their beliefs and participate positively in a diverse society. By emphasizing dialogue, critical thinking, and respect for others, RE prepares students to handle differences thoughtfully and contribute to a more inclusive, respectful society.
A Level Course Outline
The WJEC EDUQAS A Level Religious Studies course is designed to engage students and foster a deeper interest in the subject, extending beyond the classroom and into the wider world. This qualification aims to enhance students' understanding and appreciation of religious beliefs and teachings, while also exploring the disciplines of theology, ethics, and philosophy of religion. Students will develop critical analysis skills, enabling them to construct balanced and informed arguments in response to religious, philosophical, and ethical ideas.
Higher Education and Career Opportunities
Religious Studies (RS) provides a strong foundation for diverse career opportunities by cultivating critical thinking, cultural awareness, and ethical reasoning. Graduates can pursue careers in law, education, counseling, social work, journalism, and human resources, as well as in sectors like healthcare, non-profit organizations, international relations, and government. With increasing global interconnectivity, expertise in religious diversity is highly valued in diplomacy, human rights, conflict resolution, and public policy. RS prepares students to navigate complex social issues and contribute meaningfully to both professional fields and broader communities.
Course Content
Students take only ONE pathway:
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Examination Board |
WJEC (Eduqas) |
Full details of the specification and assessment criteria can be found on the WJEC (Eduqas) website |
|---|---|---|
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AS Level A Level |
Unit 1 Unit 1 |
An Introduction to the Study of Religion (Buddhism) 33.3% A Study of Religion (Buddhism) 33.3% |
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AS Level A Level |
Unit 2 Unit 2 |
An Introduction to the Philosophy of Religion 33.3% Philosophy of Religion 33.3% |
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AS Level A Level |
Unit 3 Unit 3 |
An Introduction to Religion and Ethics 33.3% Religion and Ethics 33.3% |
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Assessment in AS is by one examination of 90 minutes in each of the three units. Each examination carries 100 marks. Assessment in A Level is by one examination of two hours in each of the three units. Each examination carries 100 marks |
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Curriculum Programmes of Study
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Year |
Cycle | Content |
|---|---|---|
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Year 12 |
Cycle 1 |
An Introduction to the Study of a World Religion (Buddhism) Theme 1 – Religious figures and sacred texts (i) Theme 2 – Religious concepts and religious life (i and ii) Theme 4 - Religious practices that shape religious identity (i) |
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Cycle 2 |
An Introduction to the Study of Philosophy of Religion Theme 1 – Arguments for the existence of God (i and ii) Theme 2 – Challenges to religious belief (i) Theme 3 – Religious experience (i) |
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Cycle 3 |
An Introduction to the Study of Religion and Ethics Theme 1 – Ethical thought (i) Theme 2 – Deontological ethics (i) Theme 3 – Teleological ethics (i and ii) |
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Year 13 |
Cycle 1 |
The Study of Buddhism Theme 1 – Religious figures and sacred texts (ii) Theme 3 – Significant social and historical developments in religious thought (i and ii) Theme 4 - Religious practices that shape religious identity (ii) |
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Cycle 2 |
The Study of Philosophy of Religion Theme 2 – Challenges to religious belief (ii) Theme 3 – Religious experience (ii) Theme 4 – Religious language (i and ii) |
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Cycle 3 |
The Study of Religion and Ethics Theme 1 – Ethical thought (ii) Theme 2 – Deontological ethics (ii) Theme 4 – Determinism and free will (i and ii) |
Extra-curricular activities
The Religious Studies department offers an exciting enrichment program in Anthropology for Year 12 students, providing a fascinating exploration of humans—our cultures, societies, and how our behaviors have evolved over time. In addition, and in collaboration with the History department, two students will have the incredible opportunity to participate in the Holocaust Educational Trust's Lessons from Auschwitz Project. This program includes two interactive online seminars, followed by an impactful one-day visit to Poland.