Welcome to this highly successful Department where hard work and enjoyment of learning go hand in hand. Our approach in lessons is strictly non-confessional and non-denominational. We celebrate the fact that our school lies close to the heart of a city which is rich in religious and cultural diversity. We strive to ensure that our work reflects this richness and uses it to best effect (for example through pupils from different faith communities leading lessons and through the many visits and visitors which enable us to foster links with local communities). We believe that the department makes a significant contribution to the cultural and religious harmony inherent within the school. We seek to engender attitudes which will encourage students to live and work positively in multi-faith Britain. 

In the lower school each of the six ‘major’ world faith traditions (Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Sikhism) is explored within the curriculum. It is hoped that students will gain insight into and understanding of each of these living faiths. Emphasis is placed on learning about and learning from each faith community. Personal development and self awareness are encouraged through reflection on individual decision making, values and exploration of spirituality.

We aim to offer a rich curriculum experience which will awaken or extend pupils’ appreciation of religion as a vibrant force in human living. Our students are quick to recognise the importance of understanding a variety of faith stances even where they do not personally hold any of them. To enhance learning, numerous visits, visitors and opportunities for extended activities are provided. The department has led overseas visits to Israel, China, Poland, the Czech Republic and, most recently, to Holland, Belgium and France.