RE Policy 2023
Our vision for Religious Education (RE)
At this school, RE expresses and strengthens our vision, ethos and values that are at the heart of what we aim to do in every aspect of school life that offers human flourishing for all. The importance placed on the development of the whole child spiritually, morally, socially, culturally (SMSC) and intellectually is reflected in the RE curriculum.
In Storth Church of England School where pupils and staff come from different faiths and none, RE is a highly valued academic subject that enables understanding of how religion and beliefs affect our lives. There is ‘a commitment to generous hospitality, being true to our underpinning faith, but with a deep respect for the integrity of other religious traditions (and worldviews) and for the religious freedom of each person, Statement of Entitlement 2019.
The school provides a RE curriculum that is rich and varied and studies a range of world religions and worldviews. At the heart of RE in this school is the teaching of Christianity, rooted in the person and work of Jesus Christ that enables learners to acquire a thorough knowledge and understanding of the Christian faith.
Our aim is to provide a wide range of opportunities for learners to understand and to make links between the beliefs, practices and value systems of the range of faiths studied. We aim to provide suitable learning opportunities that match the needs of all children. This includes providing relevant support, adapted activities and using a range of teaching and learning styles within lessons.
Pupils are encouraged to know about, understand and respond to the ultimate questions of life and ethical issues. Our curriculum inspires pupils to explore, develop and affirm their own faith/worldviews and values whilst having respect for the faith, beliefs and values of others. We are committed to education for wisdom, hope, community and dignity.
Encountering religion and belief includes:
- Enquiry into and investigation of the nature of religion;
- Key beliefs and teachings, practices;
- Impact on the lives of believers and communities;
- Different ways of expressing beliefs, teachings and practices;
- Developing pupil skills of interpretation, analysis and explanation in relation to religion;
- Pupils’ communication of their knowledge and understanding using specialist vocabulary;
- Pupils reflection on and response to their own experiences, questions of identity and belonging, meaning purpose and truth, values and commitment; and
- Development of religious literacy.