Religious Education

Subject Leader: Miss Barker

Miss Barker leads RE across the school, working closely with staff to ensure the curriculum is ambitious, engaging and progressive for all pupils. Through high-quality teaching and learning, children develop a deeper understanding of religion and belief, think critically, ask thoughtful questions and reflect on their own values and the world around them.

Vision/Intent

At Athelstan Primary School, RE plays a vital role in developing pupils’ understanding of the world, their place within it and the beliefs and values that shape communities and societies. Through an ambitious, engaging and progressive curriculum, children explore questions of meaning, identity, morality and belonging while developing respect, empathy and an appreciation of diversity.

Our curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure progression in both substantive knowledge and disciplinary thinking, enabling pupils to build secure understanding alongside the skills of enquiry, interpretation, analysis and reflection. Through high-quality discussion and enquiry-based learning, children are encouraged to think critically, ask thoughtful questions and articulate their ideas with confidence and respect.

We place great importance on real-world relevance and local context, providing opportunities for pupils to visit places of worship, engage with visitors and make meaningful connections between their learning and the diverse communities around them. Cross-curricular links with subjects such as art, dance and English further enrich learning and allow pupils to explore religion and belief through creativity and expression.

In a world where religion and belief continue to influence society and global events, we believe it is essential that children develop curiosity, understanding and the ability to engage thoughtfully with different perspectives. By the end of Key Stage 2, we aim for pupils to leave Athelstan as informed, reflective and respectful young people who are prepared to contribute positively to an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

What does learning look like?

• Enquiry-led learning where children explore big questions, think critically and develop disciplinary thinking skills such as interpreting, analysing and reflecting
• Progressive development of knowledge and skills across a range of religions, beliefs and worldviews
• High-quality discussion and oracy that encourages pupils to express opinions, justify ideas and listen respectfully to different perspectives
• Real-world and local context opportunities, including visits to places of worship and engagement with faith communities
• Cross-curricular learning through subjects such as art, dance, English and history to deepen understanding and creativity
• A curriculum that promotes curiosity, empathy, respect and an understanding of diversity in modern society