Why do Religious Studies
at GCSE?
 1. Careers
In many areas of work, employers look for someone with an enquiring
mind, understanding and appreciation of other people’s points of view, and an ability
to come to clear, informed decisions: these are all skills which are developed in
Religious Studies. Specifically, Religious Studies qualification meets needs in
broadcasting, journalism, publishing and teaching, as well as full-time work with
religious agencies. There are also many exciting and fulfilling opportunities to
work abroad, long and short term. The understanding gained in Religious Studies
can enhance work undertaken in a variety of fields, for example: medicine, the building
industry and teaching. The perspectives gained from Religious Studies will be benefit
anyone considering these types of occupation.
2. In Education
Religious Studies
is widely accepted as an entry qualification for further and higher education courses.
It develops a wide range of skills, including those essential for enquiry, interpretation,
reasoning, evaluation and communication.
3. And personally
Religious Studies provides
students with opportunities to think about moral and ethical issues and to evaluate and make choices related to them.
Here are just a few of the industries and institutions
which accept Religious Studies as a valid examination qualification:
Armed Forces,
Association of Certified Accountants, Association of Dispensing Opticians, Balfour
Beatty, major High Street Banks, Boots Company PLC, British Diabetic Association,
Chartered Building Societies Institute, Civil Service Commission, Courtaulds Ltd.,
Faculty of Secretaries and Administrators, Gas and Electric Boards, H. J. Heinz
Col Ltd., Institute of Electrical Engineers, Institute of Printing, Nursing, Midwifery
and Health Visiting Boards, Marks and Spencer PLC, Police, Royal Town Planning Institute
…. and many more business and societies.
 The syllabus includes a study of the following:
Judaism
-
The beginnings of Judaism and central beliefs.
-
The Synagogue and worship.
-
Festivals occurring throughout the year.
-
Rites of passage (birth, marriage, bar-mitzvah,
death).
-
Personal and community life (the family, dictating laws).
Christianity
-
Believing
in God.
-
Social harmony.
-
Family relationships (marriage, divorce, family).
-
Moral
issues (wealth and poverty, abortion, euthanasia, suicide).
Assessment
There are two examination papers which make up 80% of the total mark. The remaining
20% of the marks are from coursework.
For each syllabus section there is one short
assignment. One piece of coursework will be about religion in the media
|