Religious Education
Cornwall SCITT: C79
Course Code: 2XJ9
In our global community, it is vital that young people understand the nature of faith. Studying religion encourages tolerance, celebrates cultural diversity and develops a deeper understanding of religious practices. The ethical approach of many world religions have resonance with many regardless of personal belief, and understanding these viewpoints can help young people to critically reflect on their own beliefs. Understanding the fundamental nature of knowledge, faith and values allows young people to forge a deeper awareness of their own beliefs and how to articulate their beliefs in a respectful way. The study of religious education, ethics and philosophy is an opportunity for young people to study the culture of faith and critical thought.
Preparing to Teach
Applicants for this course will ideally possess:
- A genuine interest in religion, philosophy, ethics and critical thinking
- A 2:1 or higher in Comparative Religion, Theology, Philosophy, Cultural Studies or Citizenship
- The ability to look objectively at religious Practices
If you have had a break from studying your specialist subject, have developed your subject knowledge within the workplace, or hold an A Level in one or more sciences but have an unrelated degree, then you may require a Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) course prior to starting the training programme. SKE courses require 25 hours per week of study, although part time options are also available. Several providers offer 100% online courses so that you can complete the course around other commitments. The amount of SKE required will be determined at interview, and it is important to apply as early as possible in the application cycle if you are hoping to enrol on an SKE course in the event that you are offered, and accept, a place on the course. Find out more about SKE courses on the Department for Education’s Get into Teaching website.
Experience working with young people is always particularly beneficial, particularly experience in a UK comprehensive school observing and participating in a range of lessons, including your own subject. Being able to reflect upon recent classroom observations often strengthens interview discussions. If you have been out of the classroom for a few years, having one or two days’ of school observation prior to interviews might help boost your confidence.
What you will cover on the course
The course will explore the following issues from a subject-specific perspective:
- Delivering RE in a multi-cultural society
- Methodologies for discussing religion and philosophy
- Religion in the media and modern culture
- Building respect in the beliefs, and opinions, of others
- Lesson planning and sequences of lessons
- The use of ICT
- Meeting the needs of all pupils in the classroom
- Teaching and learning strategies and resources
- Techniques to support monitoring, assessing, recording and reporting pupil progress
- Promoting a positive climate for learning