Philosophy, Ethics, Religion and World Views

At the Junior & Senior School, Philosophy, Ethics, Religion and World Views enables students to engage critically with significant ethical, philosophical and social issues to understand the world we live in more fully. Students learn about a wide range of religious beliefs and practices, and non-religious world views. They do this for the development of their knowledge, for their capacity to flourish in our diverse society, and for their growing understanding of their own identity and outlook. At the Junior & Senior School, students are encouraged to develop their own considered opinion, to articulate their views, and engage in productive dialogue and debate with others.

Our lessons are aimed at developing, with increasing depth and discernment, students’ knowledge and understanding of religious traditions and non-religious world views. Students will learn how religious identity influences people’s lives and will be encouraged to express their own considered opinions about the nature and value of religion on people and the planet. Students will develop the skills of listening, speaking and discussing, as well as those of enquiry, analysis and evaluation.

“It is important for young people to acquire a better understanding of the role that religions play in today’s pluralistic world. The need for such education will continue to grow as different cultures and identities interact with each other through travel, commerce, media or migration. Although a deeper understanding of religions will not automatically lead to greater tolerance and respect, ignorance increases the likelihood of misunderstanding, stereotyping, and conflict.” 

- Toledo Guiding Principles for Teaching about Religions and Beliefs, 2007

In Religious Education at the Junior & Senior School, we look to encourage students to develop by giving them time to ask their own questions, and evaluate the different answers offered by faiths to the questions they are investigating. Lessons are challenging and encourage students to think about the religious experiences and concepts they have learned.