Altrincham Grammar School for Girls

The Religious Studies Department operates within the aims of the school, to encourage personal development in its fullest sense, including the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of all pupils. We aim to help those we teach to make sense of the spiritual and moral dimension in their lives in order to make sound decisions based on evidence. We expect good standards of behaviour, with mutual respect and responsibility in class, leading to tolerance and understanding of other people’s beliefs and cultural heritages. A major part of our work is to contribute towards multi-cultural understanding, to eradicate prejudice and to encourage self-worth and the acceptance of others, whilst broadening the cultural experiences of pupils.

In discussion of ideas and issues we explore the related moral stances and look at the beliefs of the major religions connected with them. It is hoped pupils will make free and informed choices based on sound evidence as a result of our discussions. Opportunities for discussion and the sharing of ideas occur frequently and evaluation and reflection are encouraged so that pupils are led to an appreciation of the spiritual dimension within human existence and in their own lives. The department aims to stretch pupils’ thinking on questions of universal significance, ethics, life, death, awe, mystery etcetera.

It is hoped that pupils will come to understand their own feelings and beliefs, and be able to reaffirm their own systems of values, whether those be religious or non-religious, as a result of a balanced presentation of the issues in class; open-ended enquiry and curiosity are encouraged. Pupils will be expected to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the beliefs and practices of the major religions and philosophies and to evaluate the contribution made by religious and other beliefs to daily life. They will learn to discuss these openly and be encouraged towards mature reasoning, independence of thought and a sense of moral responsibility.

The Religious Studies department follows the Trafford Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education and the National framework for Religious Studies. All pupils from Year 7 to year 13 take Religious Studies classes in compliance with the Education Act.