Religious Studies

Introduction

We recognise that when students arrive at Kingsway Park High School, they may have had limited opportunities to develop and engage with a deep understanding with the diverse religious and non-religious worldviews that shape identity, culture, and society, particularly within the rich and vibrant community of Rochdale. When students leave KPHS, we want them to have a strong understanding of belief systems, ethical frameworks, and the ways in which faith, philosophy and worldviews influence both individual lives and wider society. We believe that gaining this knowledge helps students to co-operate across differences, pioneer new ways of thinking, and feel that they belong in a safe, inclusive and intellectually rich environment.

At Kingsway Park High School, Religious Studies aim to cultivate a deep understanding and respect for worldviews by providing a safe space which augments curiosity and growth, to inspire students to become socially responsible citizens. Students need to be able to ask challenging questions about purpose, morality, and meaning, communicate ideas with clarity, and critically evaluate different perspectives. We believe that the key to this is building religious literacy, nurturing respectful dialogue, and encouraging philosophical enquiry.

Our curriculum is ambitious, inclusive, and empowering, equipping all students with the knowledge, skills, and values to make informed choices, contribute to society, and succeed in a diverse world.  

How Religious Studies Supports Our School Values

We Co-operate
The KPHS curriculum enables our students to discuss complex moral, philosophical and religious questions which have more than one valid viewpoint. We work with our students to guide them to listen respectfully, challenge ideas rather than people and to build balanced arguments regardless of their differing beliefs. 

We Pioneer
The Relgious Studies depatrment at KPHS encourage all of our students to develop curiosity and confidence to think open-mindedly and to reflect on existing beliefs. The very nature of students engaging with questions that have no single answer means that independent thoughts are formulated in our classrooms daily. We are proud to encourage our students to think about unfamiliar and new ideas in thoughtful and original ways. 

We Belong
At KPHS in both the Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 Religious Studies, the curriculum creates a strong sense of belonging by helping students understand the diversity of beliefs, values, and identities that exist within both local communities and the wider-world. By exploring a range of religious and non-religious worldviews, our students learn that difference is normal and that there are many ways of finding meaning and purpose in life. Through respectful discussion of ethical and philosophical questions, our students are encouraged to listen to others, share their own views, and recognise the value of different perspectives. 

What our students say…

"I love learning Religious Studies at KPHS because it’s an incredible lesson and very important as well. I think everyone should learn RS because it prevents misunderstanding and makes sure everyone gets along." - Eman, year 10 

"Religious Studies at KPHS is an engaging, interesting subject and encourages me to ask questions and understand religion from various perspectives." - Zakariyya, year 10 

"Religious Studies is an incredible lesson where you could learn a lot about religion. It's also a peaceful lesson, the work, lessons and planning are all really good and easy to follow." - Andrei, year 10

Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) in Religious Studies

Studying Religious Studies develops critical thinking, empathy, cultural awareness, ethical reasoning, and communication skills. Students learn to analyse beliefs, interpret symbolism, evaluate evidence, and engage thoughtfully with diverse perspectives—skills that are highly valued in careers involving human interaction, ethical decision-making, and social responsibility.

Career Areas Linked to Religious Studies:

• Community, Youth & Social Work – applying empathy, cultural understanding, and communication skills to support diverse communities and social initiatives.
• Charity, Humanitarian & Development Work – using ethical reasoning, problem-solving, and cultural awareness to contribute to social impact and international aid projects.
• Education & Cultural Heritage – interpreting beliefs and traditions, fostering understanding of worldviews, and teaching or promoting cultural knowledge.
• Media, Journalism & Communications – analysing ethical issues, reporting on religion and culture, and conveying complex ideas to diverse audiences.
• Law, Public Services & Ethics – applying critical reasoning, ethical evaluation, and argumentation skills in human rights, healthcare ethics, and public policy contexts.

For more information about careers linked to Religious Studies, visit: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/groups/c0rx344r1g5t