Religious Studies at Hutton Church of England Grammar School and Sixth Form

"In your relationships with one another, have the same mind-set as Christ Jesus." — Philippians 2:5

Religious Studies is a core subject at Hutton Church of England Grammar School and Sixth Form, reflecting our Christian ethos and our commitment to nurturing students who are compassionate, reflective, and morally aware. Through a rich and carefully designed curriculum, Religious Studies plays a key role in the spiritual development of all our students, across every key stage.

We closely follow the Blackburn Diocesan framework for Religious Studies, known as Illuminating Pathways, which supports a rich and meaningful exploration of faith, philosophy, and ethics.

Key Stage 3: Building Foundations

At Key Stage 3, Religious Studies is taught for 2 hours per fortnight. During these years, students engage with fundamental questions about existence, belief, and identity. Topics include:

• Does God Exist?
• What does it mean to be religious in 21st Century Britain?
• Is there an afterlife?

Our curriculum is designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding, preparing students for more advanced study while encouraging open-minded and respectful dialogue. Click here for the KS3 Curriculum Plan

Key Stage 4: In-Depth Study and GCSE

Religious Studies becomes a compulsory GCSE subject at Key Stage 4 and is studied for 4 hours per fortnight. Students follow the AQA Specification A, focusing on:

• An in-depth study of Christianity and Islam
• Key themes such as relationships and families, religion and life, peace and conflict, and crime and punishment

Students do well in RS at GCSE, with results frequently above the national average and significantly above average for boys. Our engaging teaching and supportive environment help all students reach their full potential.

Key Stage 5: A Level and Core RS Super-Curriculum

At Key Stage 5, students have two pathways within Religious Studies:

1. A Level Religious Studies, following the EDEXCEL specification, where students delve into:

• Philosophy of Religion
• Religion and Ethics
• New Testament Studies

2. Core Super-Curriculum RS, a compulsory one-hour fortnightly programme, ensures that all Sixth Form students continue to reflect on moral, spiritual, and philosophical issues, regardless of their A Level choices.

Why Study RS at Hutton?

Our Religious Studies programme equips students with the skills to think critically, reason ethically, and understand the diverse world around them. Whether exploring the nature of belief, moral dilemmas, or scriptural interpretation, students are challenged to consider their own views while respecting those of others. Whether questioning, reflecting, or debating, students leave Hutton with a deeper understanding of themselves, others, and the wider world.