Religious Studies

Religious Studies at OSSMA

Exploring the world through the eyes of others.

Why do we teach RS?

Within a world of divergent views, teaching RS strives to explain the purpose of human life. Our students are exposed to the beliefs, actions, motives and morals that shape approximately 85% of the world’s population. As religion predates written history, the psychological need for a sense of identity and belonging has consequently led to religion being one of the most powerful agents for socialisation. By creating a safe space for our students to evaluate these philosophies, we allow them to become critical, open-minded human beings who have a true understanding of morality and how society has evolved. Together we can develop tolerance and eradicate xenophobic beliefs amongst young people who during their lifetime will be exposed to various religions and cultures from around the world. As students uncover a universal curriculum they will be gasping to explore the thoughts of others not only in our school community but worldwide. RS inspires students to indulge in the phenomena of multiculturalism, not through a textbook but through the lived experience of travel and friendships.

What does a Religious Studies student look like at OSSMA?

  • RS students study a diverse range of religious beliefs to help them understand and think critically about relevant issues in the news around the world.
  • Exposure to a moral code of conduct and how we should respond to issues that may affect our lives. For example, forgiveness and the Holocaust.
  • RS students are tolerant and accepting of all religions, races and ethnicities
  • Students approach topics with an open-minded outlook whilst being able to think critically and evaluative ideas or opinions
  • RS students are passionate about the world we live in and the people around us.
  • RS students are eager to provide solutions to problems worldwide.

Change and resilience
Islamic beliefs

Power
Christianity

Diversity and empathy
Baha’I Religion

Freedom
Judaism

Social and moral Chaos
Sikhism

Dreams and aspirations
Buddhism

Dystopia and injustice
Hinduism

Struggles
Prejudice and discrimination in religion

Crime and injustice
Crime and punishment

Tolerance and Extremism
Extremism

Relationships and tensions
Science and religion

Environmental changes
Stewardship

  • Block 1  – Animal Testing 
  • Block 2 – Medical Ethics
  • Block 3 – Relationships
  • Block 4 – Free Will 
  • Block 1 – What Money Can’t Buy 
  • Block 2 – Life After Death 
  • Block 3 – Religion and War