Religious Education

Intent

At Laughton, we believe that it is important for all our pupils to learn from and about religion, so that they can understand the world around them. The aim of Religious Education in our school is 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.  We aim to engage and inspire children, enabling them to grow their knowledge, skills and ability to answer challenging questions. Our curriculum is designed to encourage creativity, imagination, enquiry, debate, discussion and independence.

 

Implementation

Learning is embedded through the development of knowledge and skills over time. Children are asked to respond to new ideas, beliefs and concepts through a varied and exciting curriculum.  Drama, art and discussion contribute to the children’s understanding of a diverse range of religious beliefs and traditions.  The scheme of work utilised at Laughton shows a clear progression of skills and teachers use a range of assessment techniques to ensure that all children build and develop their knowledge of religion. At Key Stage 1, children learn through six different topics, whereas at Key Stage 2, three topics are studied in depth by each year group across the year.  Children are taught to reflect on many religions such as Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam following the Rotherham SACRE scheme of work.

We value the religious background of all members of the school community and hope that this will encourage individuals to share their own experiences with others freely.  All religions and their communities are treated with respect and sensitivity and we value the links, which are, and can be made between home, school, and a faith community.  We are extremely lucky that members of the local church, Laughton All Saints, regularly visit our school to carry out assemblies.

We acknowledge that each religion studied can contribute to the education of all our pupils.  We promote teaching in Religious Education that stresses open enquiry and first-hand experiences wherever possible for both staff and children. 

 

Impact

Our RE curriculum shows clear progression of skills as children move through school. Children can discuss religion competently and show their consideration towards the beliefs of others. Teaching the curriculum in this way encourages pupils to develop their sense of identity and belonging. It enables pupils to develop respect for and sensitivity to others, in particular those whose faiths and beliefs are different from their own. It promotes discernment and enables pupils to combat prejudice.  Religious Education has an important role in preparing pupils for adult life, employment and lifelong learning.  It enables them to flourish individually within their communities and as citizens in a pluralistic society and global community.