Religious Education
Old Stratford Primary School RE Curriculum Rationale
Intent
At Old Stratford Primary School, we believe that it is important for all of our pupils to learn from and about religion, so that they can understand the world around them. The aims of Religious Education in our school are to help children to acquire and develop knowledge and understanding of Christianity and the other principal religions represented in Great Britain; to appreciate the way that religious beliefs shape life and behaviour; to develop the ability to make reasoned and informed judgements about religious and moral issues; and to enhance their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. Religious Education plays an important role, along with all other curriculum areas, particularly PSHE, in promoting social awareness and understanding in our children. We encourage our pupils to ask questions about the world and to reflect on their own beliefs, values and experiences. We include and promote British values, ensuring that children are aware of their rights and responsibilities as UK citizens.
Implementation
In EYFS, RE is taught mainly through learning about a range of religious festivals. It is also touched upon through the Early Learning Goal of ‘Understanding of the World: People, Culture and Communities’. In Years 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6, children are taught the equivalent of 30 mins RE each week, although it is at the teacher’s discretion as to how this is completed. In Year 2, children have a weekly RE lesson lasting one hour. The teaching of RE at Old Stratford Primary School in Years 2- 6 follows the Twinkl RE Scheme of Work, within which the children learn about a wide range of religions. Pupils in Year One learn about each of the main world 2 religions in turn, providing them with a base knowledge upon which later learning can be built. In Year Six, children also learn about the non-religious view of humanism.
Impact
We believe our RE curriculum will give our children a better understanding of the religions that make up the UK landscape and how they can learn from and work alongside each other to create community cohesion. All children will be more informed about their position in the world, and the decisions they can make impacting their future. All children in school will be able to talk confidently about their wellbeing, moral and cultural development for the society in which they live. The RE curriculum will promote inquisitive minds, respect, tolerance and understanding for all those around them including themselves. Impact will be seen by all teachers and children enjoying the experience of teaching and learning RE and understanding how it can help them in their future.
