Core RE at BTHCC

Core RE is a compulsory and vital part of the Sixth Form curriculum, with all Sixth Forms nationally required to provide Religious Education. At BTHCC, our Core RE programme goes beyond legal obligation—it is a dynamic and thought-provoking journey designed to help students grow as whole people.

Our Core RE Learning Journey is carefully structured to support both progression and personalisation. Students explore a wide range of contemporary and ethical issues—from Ecology to Crime and Punishment, Medical Ethics, Fair Trade, and Women in the Bible. These topics are rooted in Gospel values and shaped by Catholic Social Teaching, while being inclusive and accessible to students of all faiths and none.

A key feature of Core RE is its flexibility. Free from exam pressures, students and staff work collaboratively to shape the curriculum each year. Through surveys, discussions, and feedback, students help decide what topics are most relevant and meaningful to them. Whether it's exploring Dreams of a Better World, tackling Faith and Doubt, or responding to injustice, students take ownership of their learning.

Lessons are discussion-based and engaging, using real-life case studies, debates, and multimedia resources to build transferable skills—critical thinking, empathy, ethical reasoning, and confident expression. Core RE promotes the spiritual, moral, and intellectual development of every student, preparing them not just for university or work, but for life.

Higher Education and Careers
Students acquire a great range of skills, such as analysis, interpretation, critical thinking and evaluation. They will engage in, the high-level thinking of debate and conversation which builds oracy skills. These skills will prepare students well for a range of higher education courses and, beyond that, in employment generally. Engagement with current affairs, religious, and philosophical issues prepare students well for both university interviews and moving from school out into the wider world.
 

Assessment
There is no assessment in Core RE. It is a time away from exams to develop transferable skills and learn more about our faith and apply them to real-world scenarios. 
 

For more information on this course please email 

Miss Andreone
i.andreone@bthcc.org.uk