At De La Salle College, Religious Studies is at the heart of our mission to nurture thoughtful, compassionate and spiritually aware young people.
Guided by our Lasallian values and the teachings of the Catholic Church, we encourage every student to explore faith, reflect on their own beliefs, and develop a deep understanding of the world around them.
Religious Education at De La Salle is not only about learning doctrine; it is about forming character. Through discussion, enquiry, service and reflection, students gain the skills to engage respectfully with others, appreciate different perspectives, and live out values of kindness, justice and integrity.
De La Salle College is part of a global Lasallian family of schools inspired by St John Baptist de La Salle. Our ethos shapes every aspect of college life and provides a strong foundation for the teaching of Religious Studies.
In line with the core Lasallian principles, the key elements of our ethos include:
Mr Alex Martin is Head of Religious Studies at De La Salle College, Jersey, where he has taught since 2007. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Theology and a PGCE in Religious Studies from the University of Exeter.
A practising Christian, Mr Martin places his faith at the heart of his life and vocation, and it informs every aspect of his teaching and leadership. He is committed to ensuring that Religious Studies is at the heart of the school’s Catholic life and mission. Under his leadership, the department has achieved consistently excellent outcomes at both GCSE and A Level.
Mr Martin is passionate about the dual purpose of Religious Studies: fostering rigorous academic knowledge and understanding, while also nurturing students’ spiritual development and capacity for reflection. He strives to create a student-centred and inclusive classroom rooted in the Lasallian principle of recognising the dignity of each individual, with high expectations for all.
He is actively involved in the wider Lasallian and diocesan community, attending annual Lasallian formation gatherings and participating in diocesan meetings, contributing to the ongoing development of Catholic education and mission.
Mr Martin values Religious Studies as a subject that enables young people to engage deeply with life’s fundamental questions, encounter a rich diversity of beliefs, and grow in their understanding of the world and their place within it.
He has a particular interest in philosophy and enjoys exploring philosophical ideas through literature, film, and contemporary media. Outside the classroom, he has a keen interest in sport, particularly field hockey, and previously enjoyed surfing.
Our Religious Studies curriculum is designed to give students a secure understanding of Catholic theology, moral decision‑making and scripture. It also ensures meaningful engagement with other world religions and contemporary ethical issues.
Our approach to teaching Religious Studies emphasises:
Chaplaincy plays a vital role in the spiritual life of the College. Working closely with the RS department, our Chaplain supports collective worship, retreats and opportunities for service.
Religious Studies extends well beyond the curriculum. Students take part in a range of activities including:
Read more about our Sixth Form Leavening project:
Through our RS curriculum and wider faith life, De La Salle College aims to help every student:
Young people need the light of watchful guides to lead them on the path of salvation