Religious Education

Key Stage 3 - Years 7, 8  & 9

All pupils at Key Stage 3 follow the Religious Studies Programme ‘ICONS’.

This is a complete Religious Education Programme for 11-14 year old. It provides a framework for Religious Education which allows pupils to explore the key elements of Christian belief and teaching according to the Catholic tradition.

This programme has been fully differentiated 'in house' to encompass all levels of ability.

Whilst we at St Vincent's teach RE according to the Catholic Tradition, we do respect the faith traditions of other religions, so we do, whenever possible, gain knowledge and insight into other faiths and their teachings.

Key Stage 4 Years 10 & 11 Examination accreditation

The pupil's at St Vincent's follow either Entry Level Religious Studies or GCSE Religious Studies. They are both a 2 Year Course.

GCSE Religious Studies Course Content

Two qualifications are available through this specification: GCSE Full Course & GCSE Short Course. To gain a GCSE Full Course, pupils enter for two options:

1B: Christian Belief & Practice with reference to the Roman Catholic Tradition

Pupils will be expected to be aware of the common ground that all Christians throughout the world share, and of the Orthodox Roman Catholic and Protestant traditions including the reasons for their distinctions. However there will be an emphasis on Roman Catholic Belief & Practice.

A specific study of the history of the Christian Church is not required. Pupils will be expected to know and understand the proper terms for aspects of Christian faith and practice which form part of the subject content.

2B: Effects of the Roman Catholic Tradition upon aspects of Christian lifestyle & behaviour
 
This option examines the effect of the Roman Catholic tradition upon aspects of Christian lifestyle and behaviour.

Pupils will need to be aware of the distinctive effect of the Roman Catholic tradition. Pupils will be expected to make full use of their knowledge and understanding of selected biblical passages.

Pupils must also submit 2 coursework assignments:

  1. Pilgrimage (1500 words) Lourdes & Taize

  2. Marriage (1500 words) as a Sacrament

To gain a GCSE Short Course pupils enter for 1 option:

1B: Christian Belief & Practice with reference to the Roman Catholic Tradition.

Pupils must also submit 1 coursework assignment:

  1. Pilgrimage (1500 words) Lourdes & Taize.

AQA Entry level Certificate

This course is designed to consider spiritual, moral, ethical, cultural and citizenship issues. The certificate is designed for those pupils whom GCSE and equivalent qualifications are not deemed appropriate.

Scheme of Assessment

Candidates must submit for assessment and moderation evidence from 6 units.

Year 10

Core Unit 1

  • Core Unit 1 “Some Practices of a World Religion”
  • Option Unit 11 “Drug Use.”
  • Option Unit 17 “Capital Punishment”
Year 11
  • Core Unit “Some Aspects of Jesus’ Passion and Resurrection.”
  • Option Unit 9 “Marriage, Divorce and Re-marriage.”
  • Option Unit 20 “The Environment”

All programmes and schemes are prepared in accordance with the “Religious Education Curriculum Directory for Catholic Schools.”