Examination Requirements
The syllabus followed at GCSE builds upon the knowledge and skills that the students will already have developed at Key Stage 3. Whilst the Religious Studies Department, like all departments, will always strive to achieve the highest academic standards possible for our students, we also realise that we work in co-operation with parents in the development of their child’s faith, and this must always be regarded as being of equal importance to the attainment of high academic standards.

Examining Board

The Examining Board chosen for GCSE is the Northern Examinations and Assessment Board.

Two papers worth 80%, are taken along with coursework making up the other 20%. The two papers taken are:

1. The Christian Life and the Gospel. (A detailed study of St Mark’s Gospel)

2. Effects of the Roman Catholic Tradition upon aspects of Christian Lifestyle and Behaviour. (A detailed study of the sacraments and their application to modern day living.)

Assessment Objectives at GCSE

The examination will assess the extent to which students are able to:

(i) demonstrate knowledge and understanding of

(a) the key elements of their faith, including beliefs, practices, sources of authority and organisations;

(b) the effect of religion on individual or corporate moral behaviour, attitudes, social practices and lifestyles;

(ii) produce evidence and arguments to support and evaluate points of view arising from the study of religious concepts, beliefs and practices.

Career Implications

Religious Studies is growing in popularity as an ‘A’ Level subject. It is treated as a literary subject that demands high levels of research ability and investigative skills. Many students considering Arts degrees, Law, Social Sciences, Teaching, and other careers number Religious Studies among their ‘A’ Levels.