Religious Education

‘Religion and beliefs inform our values and are reflected in what we say and how we behave. RE is an important subject in itself, developing an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the religions and beliefs which form part of contemporary society.’

(National Curriculum Guidance)

INTENT

At Whitings Hill we believe that Religious Education helps to develop all aspects of the child as an holistic point of view.

To develop an awareness of spiritual and moral issues in children’s lives and how they experience them
To develop knowledge and understanding of major world religions or value systems adhered to in the UK
To have an understanding of what it means to be part of a religious tradition or belief system
To be capable of reflecting on their own life experiences
To develop a personal response to the fundamental questions of life
To learn and be able to comment upon religious traditions, and have an appreciation of cultural differences in the UK today
To develop their investigative and research skills, in order to hold reasoned opinions on religious issues∙
To have respect for other people’s views, and to celebrate diversity in society.
To learn from and about religion and belief systems.

IMPLEMENTATION

Religious Education is a statutory subject of the curriculum for all pupils in each year group and ‘should be provided for all registered pupils except those withdrawn at the request of their parents.’
Religious Education is taught on a weekly basis.
Lessons are planned and delivered in a variety of ways ensuring that all children can access and participate in lessons. Interactive, practical activities encourage the children to discuss their ideas and extend their understanding of difficult concepts and challenging questions. The use of artefacts, photographs and videos give children prompts and fascinators in order to spark discussion and facilitate learning.
Within school, opportunities are taken to share knowledge and understanding of R.E. in assemblies and through themed events, i.e. Black History Month. Children visit places of worship and members of faith groups visit our school.
All of these experiences develop and build on previously taught skills and knowledge and help further develop understanding of the faith being studied.

IMPACT

Children will become more aware of people’s belief systems, whatever these may be.

Children will build up a wealth of knowledge about other religions, beliefs and practices and why people do things in a certain way.

Children will build up more respect, understanding and compassion towards humanity in general.

All children will have opportunities to enjoy the diversity of RE lessons and activities throughout their primary schooling.