Religious Education (RE)
RE is an important curriculum subject. It is important in its own right and also makes a unique contribution to the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils and supports wider community cohesion.
At Harris Lowe Academy Willesden, pupils follow an engaging and challenging Religious Education curriculum designed to develop an understanding of the world and the different religions within it.
Our RE curriculum aims to stimulate intellectual curiosity and develop sophisticated skills in debating and literacy through extended writing. Students will have the opportunity to delve deeper into the beliefs and practices within society and further analyse theories allowing them to understand the development of religion.
Key Stage 3 students will explore religious aspects of Philosophy, Theology and Worldviews. Topics include understanding how humans find meaning, understanding what a religion is, and grappling with big questions such as does God exist? Students will study Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism.
GCSE Religious Studies explores big questions about belief, morality and meaning in modern society. The course is 100% exam-based, with two exams at the end of Year 11 and no coursework.
Paper 1 focusses on Christianity and Islam. You will study key beliefs, teachings and practices, such as ideas about God, worship, life after death and how faith influences daily life.
Paper 2 covers Thematic Studies, where you examine important issues such as relationships and families, crime and punishment, religion and life, and religion, peace and conflict. You will compare religious and non-religious viewpoints and consider how beliefs shape decisions in today’s world.
Lessons encourage discussion and debate, helping you develop your own informed opinions. You will learn to explain different perspectives, evaluate arguments and write clear extended answers.
Religious Studies builds strong skills in analysis, evaluation, communication and critical thinking. It supports subjects like English and History and provides a good foundation for A-Level study. The skills gained are valued in careers such as law, journalism, teaching, social work and business.