Year 7 Students are welcomed into RAVE with an exploration of the privileges of belonging to a faith school and the establishing of clear expectations of behaviour and work founded on Christian values. ‘Signs and Symbols’ forms the first unit of study, exploring the diversity of religious expression within UK society, with curriculum links to History through the symbolism of the Poppy. We investigate the symbolism of light in many religious traditions, highlighting links with many faith-based charities, such as the Children’s Society, through ‘The Christingle Appeal.’ Our second unit builds on the first with a study of sacred places, people and books within Islam, Judaism, Sikhism and Hinduism. We invite visiting speakers from a variety of World Faiths and organise educational and spiritual visits to deepen the understanding and appreciation of spirituality.

Year 8 Students study the concept of ‘believing and belonging’ considering the role of faith and values in creating a sense of being part of a community. This section also allows enquiry into attitudes of prejudice, intolerance and stereotyping, which form the basis of many causes of religious disharmony. Sensitivity and understanding of all faiths is encouraged through exploring rites of passage in a number of faiths. Major religious festivals are investigated with particular focus on the meaning behind Christmas, Lent and Easter. Our second unit is ‘Pilgrimage,’ an important theme within many religions, looking at sacred journeys and their impact on the lives of believers.

Year 9 Students explore what it means to be human and to be in relationship. Concepts such as love, responsibility and commitment are discussed and pupils learn about different religious attitudes to marriage, divorce and family life and how these attitudes have evolved within society. We consider different beliefs about life after death and ponder the existence of the soul and the afterlife. Students investigate key people and events and people in our history, such as Martin Luther-King and ‘The Holocaust,’ as a means of understanding how faith impacts on the way we live. We research many religious charities and discuss practical ways we can put our Christian faith and values into action. Students will begin their GCSE course towards the end of the year, in preparation for year 10, giving our students the best opportunity to succeed in Religious Education.