Our S2 pupils have recently been exploring the theme of Crime and Justice in RME (Religious, and Moral Education). Through thoughtful discussion and independent research, they have been developing their understanding of why people commit crimes and the complex factors that influence behaviour. Pupils have also considered why compassion can sometimes be important when looking at the circumstances behind certain offences. You can see some examples of their work in the collage.
As part of this topic, young people have been learning about the aims of punishment and are now able to explain whether a particular response to crime is intended to:
- Rehabilitate
- Deter
- Protect society
- Seek retribution
The classes have engaged in mature and reflective conversations, particularly around ethical questions such as the death penalty, exploring arguments from both religious and non‑religious perspectives. Pupils have also been using their iPads to research real-life cases, examining motives, consequences, and how justice is delivered.
We encourage families to continue these conversations at home – discussing crimes in the news, different types of punishment, and the wider purpose of prisons can help deepen pupils’ understanding. Pupils should be encouraged to give their own opinion on punishments given and what aim of punishment that might fit into.
Learning about Justice continues into our senior phase, and these themes are explored in greater depth in both the National 5 and Higher RMPS courses. Any older pupils interested in these issues are very welcome to speak to any RMPS teacher about this. You do not have to have studied National 4/5 RMPS in order to study it in the senior phase.
