Does God exist? Why does God allow suffering? Do miracles happen today? Is there life after death? Was Jesus just a good man? Is life sacred? Capital Punishment: Yes or No?
These are just some of the questions we consider as we study key passages in both the Old and the New Testament. We encourage children to develop their understanding of other cultures and an appreciation of different traditions in alternative faiths through looking at Judaism, Islam and Buddhism. Pupils are encouraged to ask questions, to role play and to express their views in hearty debates. Religious Education at Amesbury supports the development of the pupil’s own values combining confidence and a strong sense of self-awareness with concern and respect for others.
Each year group will visit a place of religious significance. Some of our highlights include:
- Year 3 visit to Guildford Cathedral
- Year 4 visit to a Jewish Synagogue
- Year 5 visit to a Buddhist Temple
- Year 7 visit to “The Life of Christ” at the Wintershall Estate
In Year 8 the students complete a detailed project on a local church which is submitted to their senior school for Common Entrance.
Head of Department
Mr Peter Donaldson gained a BSc (Joint Hons) Degree in Geography and Physical Education from St Andrew’s University and a PGCE from Homerton College, University of Cambridge. He has spent his entire teaching career in the preparatory sector. He was appointed Deputy Headmaster in 2006, stepping down in 2019, but his association with the school goes back to 1998 when his first son joined the school. Since then his three other children have all been at Amesbury and loved it, in spite of their dad being Deputy Head! Peter has responsibility for the weekly chapel services and he also thoroughly enjoys coaching the boys on the games field.
