RE

What we do.

Religious Education (R.E.) is taught weekly as a discrete lesson, although links are made with P.S.H.E. where appropriate. There are also opportunities for Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) development alongside the understanding of British values. R.E. is taught in an enquiry-based structure which encourages evaluation and critical thinking, equipping children to consider belief positions they encounter.

Mindfulness practices to build children’s self-awareness and skills of reflection are built in, thus supporting their RE learning as well as their personal spiritual development.

How we do it.

Our R.E. curriculum follows the ‘Discovery R.E.’ scheme. Throughout Key Stage 1, pupils investigate Christianity and are introduced to at least one other principal religion. They learn about different beliefs about God and the world around them. They encounter and respond to a range of stories, artefacts and materials from different religions. They learn to recognise that beliefs are expressed in a variety of ways and begin to use specialist vocabulary. They begin to understand the importance and value of religion and beliefs for some children and their families, as well as recognising that for some, it is not important. Pupils ask relevant questions and use their imagination to develop a sense of wonder about the world. They talk about what is important to them and others, valuing themselves, reflecting on their own feelings and experiences and developing a sense of belonging. Learning opportunities in EYFS ensure children are working towards their Early Learning Goal.

Individual lessons are planned to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with SEND, to ensure the curriculum is fully accessible.

How we ensure progress. (skills)

Detailed medium-term plans are provided by the ‘Discovery R.E.’ scheme and learning tasks are designed to enable progress to take place across Year 1 and Year 2. Year R use our ‘R.E.: Progression of skills’ document to ensure the development of skills/knowledge across year groups.

Our Progression of skills documents can be read here

What we want children to remember from each unit. (knowledge)
Before each unit is taught, teachers will identify several key facts they expect the children to know at the end. A short quiz will then provide evidence of whether a child has retained the information. E.g. What is the name of the Muslim place of worship? What is the Jewish Holy Book called?
How we assess R.E.
Discovery R.E. provides built in assessment units which include enquiring, investigating and interpreting (learning from religions) and knowledge and understanding (learning about religions). The assessment statements have been matched with our ‘Progression of skills: R.E.’ document to further ensure progress can be mapped across year groups.
How we make R.E. enjoyable.

The enquiry-based approach to learning ensures that children are actively involved in discussions and decision making. Many activities are in the form of games which are enjoyable and involve cooperation and collaboration. Engaging characters and soft toys are used to introduce many of the lessons. Mindfulness practices are built into lessons ensuring a relaxed, gentle approach to learning.