Religion and World Views

Humanities Intent

The Humanities Department at Lathom aims to develop students’ understanding of, and curiosity about, the world around them. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and vocabulary to investigate, analyse and interpret the modern world. Through their study of Geography, History, Religion and World Views and Citizenship students will learn about how our globalized world has been shaped and is continually changing. They will have the opportunity to explore enquiry questions, think critically and communicate effectively.

Religion and World Views Intent

Religion and World Views is all about giving our students an opportunity to explore the world; to inspire and challenge, to question the world around them and to engage with some of life’s big questions. Stories influence our hearts and minds and shape our society. So, what are the religious and non-religious stories that frame the way we look at life, express ourselves as individuals and within groups and communities? Through a consideration of stories, sacred texts and a study of beliefs and practices of religious communities students will be able to arrive at a sense of their own place in the world and formulate their own world view.

The Religion and World Views Curriculum is underpinned by these core principles:

To promote the spiritual, moral, cultural, mental and physical development of students
To prepare students for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of later life
To ensure students know about and understand a range of religions and world views
To allow students opportunities to explain and express their ideas about how beliefs, practices and forms of expression influence individuals and communities
To create opportunities for students to consider and explore their personal reflections and critical responses to questions and teachings about identity, diversity, meaning and value, including ethical issues
The curriculum offered to students will be accessible to all and provide all students with opportunities to be challenged, to think hard and to extend their learning
Students will develop their vocabulary, reading and communication skills through engaging with a wide range of texts, both religious and non-religious

Key Stage 3

Students at KS3 receive two lessons a fortnight, and homework that is set is appropriate to support the learning that takes place in the classroom. Students are also encouraged to reflect on their learning through a Religion and World Views learning journal. Progress of students is monitored regularly through class and homework, and there are assessments completed at an appropriate stage in each unit of work.

Key Stage 4

Students have the option of following a GCSE in Religious Studies

Enrichment Opportunities

There are a number of enrichment opportunities available:

Within Religion and World Views lessons students will complete a Reflective Learning Journal
The use of artefacts within lessons
Philosophy club
Visits to local places of worship

How to Support your Child’s Learning

You can support your child with their homework, and by asking questions about what they are studying in school. You could also discuss their Religion and World Views Learning Journal with your child.

Where to visit locally

Liverpool Anglican Cathedral

Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral

Princes Road Synagogue, Liverpool

Al-Rahma Mosque, Liverpool

Manchester Cathedral

Manchester Jewish Museum

What to watch

TV documentaries or programmes that explore people’s world views or religious ideas

There are a number of TV series and films that cover themes explored within Religion and World Views lessons. Here are a few examples recommended by our teaching staff:

Good Omens – a TV series that explores ideas of good vs bad, featuring an angel and a demon
Chariots of Fire – a tale of inspiration and sacrifice to achieve a dream
Selma – covers a three-month period in 1965 where Martin Luther King’s fight for voting rights despite brutal opposition

What to listen to

Music can be a source of inspiration and comfort. Listen to music that inspires or uplifts you.

What to read

Refugee by Alan Gratz – A story about three different children all seeking refuge
Refugee Boy by Benjamin Zephaniah – This book tells the story of a 14-year old refugee from Ethiopia and Eritrea
I am Malala by Malala Yousafzai – An autobiographical book about Malala’s journey in standing up for a right to an education and being shot by the Taliban
Killing Honour by Bali Rai – Based on a true story this tale set in a British Asian community is a shocking story all about traditional values and honour
Noughts & Crosses by Malorie Blackman – A series of books set in a fictionalised world where Europeans have been colonised by African people
When stars are scattered by Omar Mohamed and Victoria Jamieson – A graphic novel about growing up in a refugee camp
The Diary of Anne Frank by Anne Frank – A personal diary from a young Jewish girl who’s family was forced into hiding to escape the persecution of the Nazi regime