This course aims to provide detailed guidance and subject knowledge development for the Islam element of the new GCSE Religious Studies courses.

The revised GCSE criteria require significantly greater breadth and depth of religious and theological understanding. On this course we will explore the requirements of the different specifications, giving comprehensive and detailed coverage of key topics, teachings and practices.

Key topics will include:

• Shari’ah, Sunnah, Hadith, Qur’an
• Divine will and human action
• The six articles of faith in Sunni Islam
• The five roots of ‘Usul ad-Din in Shi’a Islam
• The Shi’a concepts of Immamate and Ahl al-Bayt
• The ten obligatory acts of Shi’a Islam
• Diversity in Islam

This course aims to help teachers to:

• Gain a good grasp of the requirements of the revised GCSE courses
• Understand key beliefs, teachings and practices in Islam
• Explore creative learning opportunities for more effective teaching of these topics
• Access relevant resources and teaching materials.

Presenter Profile

Ed Pawson spent 23 years as a secondary RE teacher, most recently as subject leader in a successful and popular RE department. He currently works as an educational adviser and consultant, contracting to the Diocese of Exeter and as adviser to Devon SACRE. He is on the National Association of Teachers of RE (NATRE) national executive, having been Chair for 6 years. He is a member of the Board of the Religious Education Council (REC) and he is the Project Director for the Learn, Teach, Lead RE programme in West of England (Somerset, Bristol and Swindon). He is passionate about the way in which RE can offer young people a unique opportunity to develop skills such as critical evaluation and dialogue. He believes that, at its best, religious education enables young people become more inquisitive, reflective and engaged learners.

Feedback from teachers on Ed's course

Some really exciting ideas bringing worldviews into lessons.
Great to have a chance to discuss the ‘tricky’ theology and share ideas for teaching.
Worthwhile discussions – today has given me food for thought when it comes to planning our new curriculum.
Fantastic course which was full of useful ideas to use immediately without too much planning.

Cost: £145 per delegate which includes lunch and resources; £199 for 2 teachers from the same school