The secondary curriculum review
The contribution of RE stems from the interest and challenge of engaging with issues of meaning, value and purpose. Students can respond positively to the stimulation of vigorous debate, to the respectful sharing of beliefs and feelings, and to the discovery of places of worship. They can rise to the challenge of understanding texts, expressing ideas and dealing with ultimate questions. Achievement in RE also requires specific attitudes such as self-awareness, respect, openness and appreciation.
The contribution of RE comes from its concern with moral questions such as relationships, drugs, advertising, food and violence. In confronting these issues, students learn how to take wise decisions, to help or advise others and to understand moral or emotional pressures. By gaining an understanding of ideas such as temptation, desire/grasping and emptiness, students strengthen their understanding of spiritual and moral perspectives on health and well-being. RE also promotes an attitude of self-awareness, underpinning self-esteem.
The contribution of RE comes from its concern with religious and moral issues in family and communal life. By learning about religious rules governing care of children, respect for friends and neighbours and responsibility for crime, students widen their understanding of safe and unsafe situations. By learning from themes such as authority, ethics, relationships, rights and responsibilities, students can deepen their understanding of, and commitment to, safe and healthy lifestyle choices. RE also promotes attitudes of self-awareness, underpinning self-acceptance and self-protection.
The contribution of RE arises from its characteristically participative and problem-solving approach and from its addressing of issues concerning justice and inclusion. By engaging with these issues through public speaking or community involvement, students can gain confidence from their experience of shaping their learning and their community. RE also promotes attitudes of openness and appreciation.
The contribution of RE stems from its addressing of issues such as justice and equality, prejudice and discrimination, human rights, fair trade and religious rules on financial matters. By gaining knowledge, understanding and skills in these areas, students can enrich their understanding of their own place in economic and social systems, and strengthen their capacity to change them.
