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CCRS Catholic Certificate in Religious Studies

What is it?

The Catholic Certificate in Religious Studies was formerly known as the Catholic Teachers' Certificate.
It was renamed in the 1990s to reflect the desire on the part of the Bishops of England and Wales to extend theological education to everyone in the Church who was interested in, or could benefit from, a deeper awareness of what the Church believes.
To this end, it created a course that introduces all the core topics in Christian theology, certified nationally by the Board of Religious Studies, and recognised by all Catholic institutions in England and Wales.

Why should I take it?

The CCRS is much in demand by Catholic schools at all levels, but this is certainly not the only reason to take it.

The course offers the opportunity to explore life's big questions through the eyes of the Church, and to engage directly with topics often only encountered in the popular media. In a world dominated by religious questions, the CCRS gives people the basic tools to begin answering them.

Over 90% of those who have taken the course said they would recommend it to others.

What will I study?

The CCRS is comprised of eight modules.
These include six ‘core' and two ‘specialist' modules.
The first section of three core modules deals with the sources of the Catholic Faith:

Old Testament
New Testament
Christology (the study of the Person and work of Jesus Christ)

The second section of three core modules deals with how it is that the Catholic Faith is lived out:

Ecclesiology (the study of the Church)
The Sacraments
Moral Theology (Ethics)

Two specialist modules are selected from the third section:

Religious Education in Primary Schools
Religious Education in Secondary Schools
Liturgy & Music

How will I be marked?

Each module involves 10 ‘classroom' hours and an assignment equivalent to a 1500 word essay.
Success in a module is determined by a minimum 80% attendance, and a pass in the final assignment.

When and where does it take place?

Classes are normally held at Saint David's Catholic College on Tuesday evenings during the academic year.

Three of the core modules are taught each year in five two-hour sessions.
Provision for specialist modules varies.

The full range of modules is offered on a two-year basis. Once registered, however, the student has up to five years to complete the course.

For more detailed information please contact

Dr James Siemens
Director of CCRS
Archdiocese of Cardiff
St David's Catholic College
Ty Gwyn Road
Penylan
Cardiff CF23 5QD

Telephone 029 2049 8555
(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
www. St-davids-coll.ac.uk