Intent:

The intent of the Religious Education (RE) curriculum is to deepen pupils’ understanding of the beliefs, practices, and worldviews of various religions and secular philosophies. It aims to challenge pupils to engage with key theological, ethical, and philosophical questions, encouraging them to reflect on their own beliefs, respect others’ perspectives, and develop their own sense of identity and belonging. RE is designed to help pupils contribute constructively to discussions about religion, ethics, and shared human concerns, preparing them to live responsibly in a pluralistic society. The curriculum is grounded in three academic disciplines—theology, human and social science, and philosophy—to give pupils a rich, balanced, and well-rounded understanding of religious and secular worldviews.

Implementation:

The RE curriculum is implemented through a progressive approach, ensuring that pupils engage with increasingly complex content in each of the three disciplines over time:

• Theology: Involves studying key beliefs and concepts within different religions and worldviews, understanding sources of authority (e.g., sacred texts, religious leaders), and examining the nature of God, humanity, and the afterlife. Pupils also explore different interpretations of religious beliefs and how these beliefs evolve across time and cultures.
• Human and Social Science: Focuses on the customs, rituals, and celebrations associated with religious and secular beliefs, as well as the influence of religious leaders and sacred texts on communities. It also explores moral, ethical, and lifestyle choices based on religious or secular worldviews and their practical implications in society.
• Philosophy: Engages pupils with ultimate questions about truth, morality, purpose, and meaning in life, drawing from both religious and secular perspectives. Pupils will examine conflicting views on these questions, understanding how beliefs about life’s meaning and purpose change over time and across societies.

The curriculum is designed to encourage pupils to:

• Engage with thought-provoking questions about the ultimate meaning of life, belief in God, and the nature of right and wrong.
• Stimulate curiosity about the diversity and impact of worldviews, religions, and values, enabling pupils to reflect, analyse, and communicate their own thoughts and ideas on these topics.
• Develop a sense of identity and belonging, equipping them to thrive as responsible citizens in a global society.

The curriculum integrates learning from RE with wider societal issues, providing pupils with the knowledge and skills needed to engage with religious questions constructively and empathetically.

Impact:

The impact of the RE curriculum will be seen in the following areas:

• Developed Knowledge and Understanding: Pupils will gain a deep and nuanced understanding of the beliefs, practices, and worldviews of different religions and secular philosophies. They will be able to recognise the diversity of these beliefs and the complex ways they are lived and interpreted across different cultures and historical periods.
• Constructive Engagement: Pupils will develop the ability to contribute thoughtfully and respectfully to debates on religious, moral, and ethical questions. They will be able to communicate their ideas clearly, while being sensitive to the views of others.
• Positive Attitudes: Pupils will learn to engage with others’ differing views with respect and open-mindedness. They will develop self-awareness, a sense of their own identity, and a deep appreciation for the diversity of worldviews in the world. This will help them become more empathetic, respectful, and responsible individuals in both local and global communities.
• Critical Thinking and Reflection: Pupils will be encouraged to reflect critically on their own beliefs, to analyse and evaluate different viewpoints, and to recognise how beliefs shape actions and societal decisions. They will learn how to engage in respectful dialogue, disagreeing without belittling others.
• Prepared for Adult Life: By developing these skills, pupils will be better prepared for adult life and employment. They will be able to interact sensitively with people whose beliefs differ from their own, contributing to a society that combats prejudice and promotes inclusion and understanding.

In summary, the RE curriculum aims to foster intellectual and emotional growth, enabling pupils to engage meaningfully with religious and ethical issues and to appreciate the diversity of beliefs in the world. This will help them develop as thoughtful, reflective, and open-minded individuals who are prepared to contribute positively to society.