Curriculum Intent Statement: Religious Education (RE)

Introduction

At Martock Primary School, we believe that Religious Education (RE) plays a vital role in enabling our pupils to engage respectfully with the diverse religions and worldviews that exist in our world. As a Church of England primary school, we take Christianity as our key area of learning, while also exploring other faiths with the same curiosity and reverence. Our RE curriculum is designed to align with our school's overarching vision of giving our staff and children the chance to flourish in a nurturing environment, where everyone is different, and everyone is included.

Key Aims

Our RE curriculum aims to:

• Develop pupils' understanding and appreciation of the beliefs, practises, and values of Christianity and other major world religions
• Foster a sense of respect, kindness, collaboration, and empathy towards people of all faiths and none
• Encourage pupils to think critically and ask meaningful questions about the role of religion in their own lives and the lives of others
• Equip pupils with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complex and diverse religious landscape of the modern world

Content and Skills

Throughout their time at Martock Primary School, pupils will engage with a broad and balanced RE curriculum that covers the key aspects of Christianity, as well as other major world religions such as Islam, Hinduism, and Judaism. Pupils will develop a deep understanding of religious beliefs, practises, and festivals, as well as the underlying principles and values that shape these faiths.

In addition to acquiring subject-specific knowledge, pupils will also develop a range of transferable skills, including critical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to engage in respectful dialogue with people of different beliefs and backgrounds.

Progression

Our RE curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure that pupils build upon their prior knowledge and skills as they progress through the school. In Key Stage 1, the focus will be on developing a foundational understanding of the beliefs and practises of Christianity and other faiths, with an emphasis on fostering respect and empathy. As pupils move into Key Stage 2, the curriculum will become more in-depth, exploring the nuances of different religious traditions and encouraging pupils to engage in more complex discussions and analyses.

Wider Impact

We believe that the RE curriculum at Martock Primary School plays a crucial role in preparing our pupils for the next stage of their educational journey and for life beyond the school gates. By developing a deep understanding and appreciation of diverse religious and cultural perspectives, our pupils will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern world, to engage in meaningful dialogue with people from all walks of life, and to make positive contributions to their local and global communities.