Religious Education (RE)
“Inspiring faith, exploring beliefs, and shaping compassionate global citizens.”
Intent
At Newchurch St. Mary’s Primary Academy, our Religious Education (RE) curriculum is designed to inspire and nurture children’s faith, whilst providing them with the opportunity to explore and understand all major world religions. Rooted in Christian values and underpinned by the Questful RE scheme from the Diocese of Blackburn, our RE teaching aims to develop children’s spirituality, compassion, and understanding of the diverse world they live in.
We are committed to helping our pupils grow into thoughtful, respectful and knowledgeable individuals who can reflect on their own beliefs and values, and those of others. Through RE, we aim to equip our children to become advocates for what they believe in, thoughtful global citizens, and agents of positive change in society. Our curriculum is relevant, thought-provoking and grounded in the real-life contexts of the children’s experiences and the wider world.
Implementation
RE is taught weekly across all year groups using the Questful RE syllabus, which is enriched with opportunities for spiritual development, critical thinking and meaningful discussion. Lessons are carefully sequenced to build upon prior knowledge, deepen understanding and develop respectful dialogue around faith and belief.
The curriculum covers Christianity in depth, while also introducing children to the key beliefs and practices of other major world faiths including Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Judaism and Buddhism. Our approach is inclusive and celebratory of difference, promoting tolerance, empathy and mutual respect.
Children are encouraged to ask and explore challenging questions, reflect on their own beliefs and experiences, and consider the beliefs of others within their school, local community and the wider world. Real-life applications and cross-curricular links are made wherever possible, helping children understand how faith and values shape the lives of individuals and communities today.
We also provide rich opportunities beyond the classroom, including visits to places of worship, engaging with local faith leaders, themed RE days, and collective worship that fosters shared spiritual growth.
Impact
Our RE curriculum helps children develop a deepening understanding of faith, belief and spirituality. By the time they leave Newchurch St. Mary’s, pupils are able to:
- Articulate their own beliefs and values with confidence and respect.
- Demonstrate empathy, tolerance and appreciation for those of different faiths and backgrounds.
- Engage in informed discussion about religious and ethical issues in modern society.
- Reflect thoughtfully on the impact of religion in their own lives and the lives of others.
- Feel empowered to take action and make a difference in their communities and the wider world.
Ultimately, our pupils leave us as curious, reflective and morally grounded young people, inspired to live out the values of compassion, justice and hope in all that they do.