Curriculum intent
Parents and carers have the right to request their child is withdrawn from all or parts of religious studies. Requests can be made by contacting the academy at office@retfordoaks-ac.org.uk
Religious education at Retford Oaks Academy encourages students to explore the beliefs, values and practices of different religions and worldviews, while also reflecting on their own ideas and understanding of the world. We aim to develop respectful, thoughtful and open-minded individuals who can engage with challenging questions and understand diversity in modern society.
Through a broad and enquiry-based curriculum, students explore key philosophical, ethical and religious questions. Alongside building knowledge of world religions, students develop critical thinking, empathy and the ability to form reasoned arguments about complex issues.
Key stage 3: years 7–9
At key stage 3, students are introduced to a wide range of religious and philosophical ideas, developing their understanding of different beliefs and worldviews. The curriculum encourages curiosity, respectful discussion and thoughtful reflection.
Students explore a range of topics including the nature of belief, key teachings from major world religions and ethical issues that affect individuals and society. They develop an understanding of Christianity and other major world faiths, alongside considering non-religious worldviews. Lessons encourage students to ask questions, challenge ideas respectfully and develop their own informed opinions.
By the end of key stage 3, students are able to explain different beliefs, compare viewpoints and begin to evaluate ethical and philosophical issues with increasing confidence.
Key stage 4: GCSE
At key stage 4, students can choose to study religious education at GCSE level, building on the foundations developed at key stage 3.
The course allows students to explore key religious beliefs, teachings and practices in greater depth, alongside a range of philosophical and ethical themes. Students are encouraged to analyse different viewpoints, construct balanced arguments and evaluate complex moral issues.
Through this study, students develop strong skills in critical thinking, written communication and evaluation, as well as a deeper understanding of religion’s role in the modern world.
Key stage 5: A level philosophy
A level philosophy at Retford Oaks Academy challenges students to think deeply about fundamental questions concerning knowledge, reality, morality and existence. We aim to develop intellectually curious learners who can think critically, construct reasoned arguments and engage thoughtfully with complex and abstract ideas.
Through the study of key philosophical themes and thinkers, students are encouraged to question assumptions, evaluate different viewpoints and develop their own well-reasoned perspectives on some of life’s biggest questions.
Skills and personal development
Through religious education, students develop a wide range of transferable skills that support both academic success and personal growth. These include:
- critical thinking and analysis
- respectful discussion and debate
- empathy and understanding of different beliefs
- evaluation of ethical and moral issues
- communication and reasoned argument
Students learn to consider different perspectives and develop thoughtful, balanced viewpoints on complex issues.
Enrichment opportunities
Students are given opportunities to extend their learning beyond the classroom through discussions, themed projects and activities that explore real-world ethical and philosophical issues. These experiences help to deepen understanding and encourage respectful engagement with diversity.
