Religious Studies

"Darkness can only be scattered by light, hatred can only be conquered by love."

Pope John Paul II

Introduction

Religious Education makes a distinctive contribution to the school curriculum by developing pupils' knowledge and understanding of religion, religious beliefs, practices, language and traditions and their influence on individuals, communities, societies and cultures.

Religious Education is concerned with the deep meaning that individuals and groups make of their experiences and how this helps them give purpose to their lives. It provides opportunities to explore, make and respond to the meanings of those experiences in relation to the beliefs and experiences of others as well as to one's own experiences

Religious Studies in St. Patrick's Grammar School

Staff

Ms Mairead Magill (Head of RE)

Mrs Patricia Gallagher

Mrs Cathy McDermott

Miss Aine McMullan

RE is taught by all teachers at KS3 and KS4 and by Ms Magill, Mrs Gallagher, Mrs McDermott at A level. To support the teaching and learning that takes place in the classroom throughout the academic year, RE students have opportunities to go on educational trips and listen to talks from various organisations. Students can take part in many extra curricular activities such as the Saint Vincent de Paul Conference, Liturgical groups and fundraising activities.

Studying Religious Studies

All students study RE in St Patrick’s Grammar School. At Key Stage 3 level we follow the Fully Alive programme. At GCSE level we are now following the CCEA specification (current year 11 students), focusing on the study of Mark’s Gospel and Christian Ethics. At A Level, we study the Early Christian Church and Ethics. Pupils experience a wide range of activities both within the class room and outside the classroom to support their learning. Faith development is also nurtured and encouraged throughout all year groups; retreats are provided for all students within the school as well as participation in liturgies and para-liturgies. Pupils are also encouraged to take part in the extra-curricular life of the RE department

Faith in Action lies at the heart of what Religious Education in St Patrick’s represents. Pupils have the opportunity to enjoy a living relationship with God through their care for others:

  • SVP Conference
  • Nursing Home Visitations
  • Advent appeal
  • Lenten Campaign
  • SVP Toy appeal
  • Shoe Box appeal
  • John Paul II Award


Careers in Religious Studies

  • Religious Studies helps many pupils go forward and secure places in third level education or other alternative work pathways. The skills developed at various Key Stages in Religious Studies, have proven to be very beneficial in helping students to make the transition to academic study at university level. Students who have studied Religious Studies to A-Level have pursued university courses and careers in areas such as:
  • Law
  • Journalism
  • Teaching
  • Priesthood
  • Biomedical Science
  • Computing with Education
  • Psychology
  • Medicine
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Business Management
  • Nursing