RE

Subject Overview:

Religious Education has a unique place in the curriculum. It is neither a core nor a foundation subject; the 1988 Education Act states that ‘Religious Education has equal standing in relation to core subjects of the National Curriculum in that it is compulsory for all registered pupils’. At the Robert Piggott CE Schools, Religious Education plays a central role in offering the broad and balanced curriculum that will enable pupils to participate fully in life in modern Britain and the wider world.

Curriculum aims:

* to engage pupils to enquire into and explore questions arising from the study of religion and belief, so as to promote their personal, spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

* to provide learners with knowledge and understanding of Christianity and other principal religious traditions and beliefs represented in Great Britain.

* to develop pupils’ understanding of the ways in which beliefs influence people in their behaviour, practices and outlook.

* to enable learners to apply the insights of the principal religious traditions to their own search for identity and significance.

* to enable learners to become aware of their own beliefs and values and to have a positive attitude to the search for meaning and purpose in life.

*to encourage learners to develop a positive attitude towards other people who hold religious beliefs different from their own.

Our pedogogical approach to teaching this subject in the Robert Piggott CE Schools:

Our RE curriculum offers a balance between deepening children’s knowledge and understanding of the Christian faith and exploring how people of other religions practice their faith through a combination of units from Discovery, Oxford Diocese and Understanding Christianity. This programme meets the requirements of the Pan-Berkshire Agreed Syllabus through an enquiry-based approach.

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 develop their understanding of difficult concepts and challenging questions. RE learning is recorded in class learning journey books.

Strong links with St Mary’s, Wargrave include regular visits from clergy and visits to the church by EYFS and Key Stage 1. Key Stage 2 Year groups visit a non- Christian/ non-C of E place of worship each year so that children can experience how people of other denominations/ religions practice their faith. RE teaching is further supported by working with RE Inspired and visitors of other faiths other to help the children understand how people worship and carry out their faith in everyday life.