All students at Key Stage 3 have one lesson per week and two courses run in Key Stage 4.
If students choose to, they continue with the GCSE, where they will learn about the beliefs, teachings and practices of Christianity and Buddhism. We also cover the final theme of Religion and Life. They will continue to have one lesson per week.
Those not choosing the GCSE complete a series of Core RE lessons covering topics which include Philosophy, Ethics and Religion.
We offer an A level in Philosophy in the Sixth Form along side the well established EPQ (Extended Project Qualification).
Curriculum Intent
The pace of 21st century life is fast and full of change. The changes, especially in technology, are sometimes faster than many of us can keep up with. It seems we are left with less and less time to stop and reflect. However, there are moments when we are forced to wonder why and ask questions about our very existence. REP is a subject that gives students the opportunity to do just that.
REP often suffers from the misconception that it is a subject that seeks to impart religious knowledge in the hope of conversion. This is an age old misconception and misunderstanding of the true worth and purpose of this subject. By studying religious beliefs and investigating different cultures, students develop an understanding of the world in which we live and of the people alongside whom we work. Students explore the ultimate questions of human existence and therefore find the lessons highly relevant, exploring and reflecting on their own experiences, values and beliefs in the light of their study. REP stands for Religion, Ethics and Philosophy. We felt it was a better description of our multi - disciplinary approach.
Religions – or theology - is about believing. It looks at where beliefs come from, how they have changed over time, how they are applied differently in different contexts and how they relate to each other.
Ethics – or Human and social sciences - is about living. It explores the diverse ways in which people practise their beliefs. It engages with the impact of religion and belief on individuals, communities and societies.
Philosophy - is about thinking. It is about finding out how and whether things make sense. It deals with questions of morality and ethics. It takes seriously the nature of reality, knowledge and existence.
The REP Department at Imberhorne aims to encourage deep thinking on a variety of philosophical, cultural and spiritual issues to help foster an environment of respect and open-mindedness. Students have the opportunity to develop their own opinions and be able to give reasons for their arguments, as well as to understand why others think differently. This subject is inclusive and is designed to be accessible to students of any religious belief or none. We follow the West Sussex Agreed Syllabus.
Questioning, discussion and debate play a pivotal role in lessons. Students enjoy the opportunity to learn through discussion and questioning one another. The subject teaches a range of important transferable skills, including critical analysis, debate, public speaking and research skills.
Right to withdraw from RE Lessons
The law allows that a parent may request:
- that their child be either wholly or partly excused from receiving RE given in accordance with the agreed syllabus
- that a pupil who is wholly or partly excused from receiving RE provided by the school may receive RE of the kind desired by the parents elsewhere, provided that it will not interfere with the attendance of the pupil on any day except at the beginning or end of the school session.
Parents have the right to withdraw their children from RE lessons or any part of the RE curriculum (pupils may withdraw themselves if they are aged 18 or over). The school has a duty to supervise pupils who are withdrawn but not to provide additional teaching. Any alternative arrangements for RE must be made by the parent.
If you would like to withdraw your child from some, or all, RE lessons please e-mail your request, marked for the attention of the Headteacher, to info@imberhorne.co.uk