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GCSE Religious Studies

What is Religious Studies? 

Religious Studies isn’t just about learning facts—it’s about exploring the big questions that shape our world and understanding the beliefs that inspire billions of people today. 

On this course, you’ll dive into major world religions, tackle reallife ethical issues, and debate the big philosophical questions that don’t always have easy answers. Along the way, you’ll develop powerful skills like critical thinking, empathy, and persuasive writing—skills that colleges, universities and employers genuinely value. 

You’ll explore at least two different religions, while also looking at nonreligious worldviews such as humanism and atheism. This means you won’t just learn what people believe—you’ll understand why they believe it, how those beliefs influence society, and where your own views fit into the bigger picture. 

If you enjoy discussion, big ideas, or understanding people—you’ll love this course. 

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

Eduqas GCSE Religious Studies (Route/Specification A) is made up of three main components: 

  1. Religious, Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World (50%)

Themes include: 

  • Relationships 
  • Life and Death 
  • Good and Evil 
  • Human Rights 
  1. Study of Christianity (25%)

Key Christian beliefs, teachings, and practices.  

  1. Study of a Second Religion (25%)

The course develops understanding of religious teachings, practices, and sources of authority, as well as nonreligious views.  

WHY SHOULD I STUDY RELIGIOUS STUDIES?

Studying Religious Studies helps you to: 

  • Build strong skills in analysis, critical thinking, and reasoned argument. 
  • Develop your ability to write balanced and wellsupported evaluations. 
  • Understand diverse religious and nonreligious beliefs, preparing you for life in a pluralistic society. 
  • Engage meaningfully with big questions about belief, meaning, ethics and identity.  

It also supports personal development, encouraging learners to reflect on their own values, attitudes and viewpoints.  

HOW IS IT ASSESSED?

Assessment is 100% exam based: 

  • Component 1: Religious, Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World
    Written exam – 2 hours; 50% of total marks 
  • Component 2: Christianity
    Written exam – 1 hour; 25% of total marks 
  • Component 3: A Second Religion 
    Written exam – 1 hour; 25% of total marks  

Questions assess: 

  • AO1: Knowledge and understanding of beliefs, teachings and practices 
  • AO2: Analysis and evaluation of religious and ethical issues
    Each assessment objective carries 50% of the marks. 

WHAT IS THE EXAM BOARD?

We follow: 

Eduqas GCSE Religious Studies – Specification A 

This is the official Eduqas qualification for Religious Studies.  

WHAT SUBJECTS CAN IT LEAD TO STUDY AT A LEVEL OR BTEC?

GCSE Religious Studies is excellent preparation for a wide range of Level 3 qualifications, including: 

  • A Level Religious Studies / Philosophy 
  • A Level Sociology 
  • A Level Psychology 
  • A Level History 
  • A Level Politics 
  • A Level English Literature 
  • BTEC Health & Social Care 
  • BTEC Public Services 

(The GCSE develops evaluative writing and ethical reasoning, which are foundational for these subjects.) 

WHAT CAREERS CAN IT LEAD TO?

Religious Studies opens doors to careers where analytical, ethical and peoplecentred skills are essential, including: 

  • Law 
  • Education 
  • Social work 
  • Police and criminal justice 
  • Politics and civil service 
  • Counselling and mental health 
  • Charity and humanitarian work 
  • Journalism and media 
  • Youth and community work 

(The qualification builds critical thinking, cultural literacy, ethical awareness and communication skills valued across sectors.) 

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Students studying RS typically have access to a range of enrichment opportunities such as: 

  • Visits to places of worship (churches, mosques, synagogues, temples) 
  • Workshops with faith and community leaders 
  • Ethics debates and interfaith discussions 
  • Philosophy clubs or “Big Questions” seminars 
  • Trips to conferences, museums or university RS taster sessions 
  • Participation in charity, social action and human rights projects 

These activities help deepen understanding of the course content and its relevance to modern society. 

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