Religious Education

We may have different religions, different languages and different coloured skin but we all belong to one human race.

Kofi Annan

At Garden Fields School, our Religious Education (RE) curriculum aims to ensure that children discover and gain an insight into religions within the world that we live. We see the teaching of RE as vital for children to develop an understanding of their own and others’ beliefs and values.

You can find out more in our 3 Is; Intent, Implementation and Impact.

Withdrawal:

All parents have the right to withdraw their children from RE teaching. (1944 Act, re-enacted in the 1988 Act). Parents are not obliged to state their reasons for seeking withdrawal. However, we encourage parents with any concerns about the teaching of RE in Garden Fields JMI School to discuss their views with the Headteacher before requesting their child be withdrawn. It is also recognised that teachers have the right to refuse to teach RE. This is something that the individual teacher concerned would need to discuss with the RE subject leader, the Headteacher and possibly the Governors. 

Intent

At Garden Fields JMI School, the intent of our Religious Education (RE) teaching is to help pupils:

• acquire and develop their knowledge and understanding of Christianity and other principal religions represented in Great Britain (Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Sikhism, Buddhism);
• appreciate the way that religious beliefs and non-religious views shape life and behaviour;
• develop the ability to make reasoned and informed judgements about religious and moral issues; and
• enhance their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

Implementation

Religious Education (RE) is taught in all year groups across the school. We are supported in this by the Jigsaw RE scheme of work, which is an enquiry based programme. Garden Fields pupils will develop the ability to communicate their understanding of RE through discussion, writing, artwork and drama. To enhance children’s learning, we draw upon the children’s own experiences of religion. All religions and their communities are treated with respect and sensitivity. We aim to provide children with the opportunity to listen to visiting speakers and visit local places of worship during their time at Garden Fields School.

Impact

At Garden Fields School, pupils will develop their ability to think critically and with empathy. They will develop their understanding of the key beliefs and practices of the main religions and how they influence the lives of people in the world around them. They will be open minded and tolerant of other people’s beliefs. RE is invaluable in our ever-changing world.

Knowledge Organisers

Knowledge organisers for each key stage:

• EYFS Sparkle and Shine
• Christianity – KS1 | KS2
• Hinduism – KS1 | KS2
• Islam – KS1 | KS2
• Judaism – KS1 | KS2
• Sikhism – KS1 | KS2
• Buddhism – KS2

The Learning Journey below illustrates the RE curriculum for children from EYFS to Year 6.