Exploring Faith, Culture, and Compassion: A Semester in Religious Education
This semester in the Religious Education department has been one of exploration, reflection and connection. As I shared in assembly recently, our aim is not only to deepen our understanding of different religions and spiritual traditions but also to grow as compassionate and open-minded individuals. People’s beliefs shape their lives, communities and the world. Religious Education gives us a unique opportunity to explore how diverse cultures across time and place seek meaning, purpose and connection. It’s a subject that inspires us to ask important questions about life, justice and our place in the world. By learning about a variety of faith traditions, we also learn to celebrate difference and develop empathy for others.
Here’s what each year group has been engaging with this semester:
Year 7 – Understanding Our Heritage: St Brigid and the Brigidine Tradition
Our youngest students have begun their high school RE journey by learning about the inspiring legacy of St Brigid and the Brigidine Sisters who brought their tradition to Australia. Through this unit, students gained a deeper appreciation for the values at the heart of Brigidine College—compassion, strength and justice—and how these are grounded in a rich religious and cultural tradition.
Year 8 – Discovering Judaism and the Life of Jesus
Year 8 students have embarked on a dual journey this semester. Firstly, they explored the foundational aspects of Judaism, including key festivals such as Passover, giving them insights into Jewish faith and culture. They then delved into the historical and spiritual context of the Life and Times of Jesus, enhancing their understanding of his impact and legacy.
Year 9 – Church History: From Plague to Reform
Year 9 students tackled one of our most fascinating and challenging units—Church History. They studied the role of the Church during major historical events, including the Black Death and the Protestant Reformation. This unit allowed students to see how religion has influenced and been influenced by historical change and how it continues to evolve over time.
Year 10 – Accelerated Studies of Religion I: Ancient and Living Traditions
In Year 10 students began the accelerated Studies of Religion I course. This semester they explored Aboriginal Spirituality—focusing on the deep connection to land, ancestors and community, as well as beginning a depth study on Judaism, examining beliefs, practices and history.
Year 11 – Studies of Religion II: Ancient Origins and Contemporary Faith
Our Year 11 students continued their in-depth exploration of religion with a similar focus on Aboriginal Spirituality and Judaism. However, they also undertook an additional unit on Religions of Ancient Origins, examining fascinating traditions like Shintoism and the Aztec religion. These studies encouraged students to consider how ancient belief systems continue to influence spiritual life today.
Year 12 – Faith in Action: From Global Peace to Sacred Rituals
Our Year 12 students have been engaged in profound and inspiring topics. They studied two significant individuals—Pope John XXIII, particularly his role in promoting peace during the Cuban Missile Crisis with his encyclical Pacem in Terris (Peace on Earth), and Rabbi Abraham Heschel, who marched alongside Martin Luther King Jr in the American Civil Rights Movement. These studies highlighted how religious figures can play vital roles in movements for justice and peace. Year 12 students also explored the Jewish practice of marriage, with some classes enthusiastically participating in role-plays to better understand the meaning and symbolism of the ritual.
Alongside exploring diverse religious traditions and histories, our students have been developing essential writing skills that will benefit them well beyond Religious Education. Years 7-11 have focused on short answer writing, learning to clearly express ideas, provide concise explanations and support their points with relevant evidence. Meanwhile, Year 12 students have placed a strong emphasis on essay writing, honing their ability to construct well-organised, coherent and persuasive arguments. These writing skills are not only crucial for success in Religious Education but also transferable to university studies and other academic disciplines. This focus strengthens critical thinking and communication abilities, which are foundational across all subjects.
Religious Education at Brigidine helps foster thoughtful, informed and compassionate young people who can appreciate the richness of our shared human experience. Whether it’s exploring a Jewish wedding, Aboriginal spirituality, or the teachings of ancient religions, we aim to build bridges of understanding in a world that deeply needs them.
Amanda Campbell
Head of Religious Education
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