Religious Education

The Religious Education (RE) curriculum plays a fundamental role in shaping our school's ethos of spiritual, moral and social education. RE stands as a cornerstone for fostering critical-thinking skills, nurturing British Values and promoting inclusivity in conjunction with our PSHE curriculum. It empowers students to question, explore, and cultivate ideas, facilitating a deeper understanding of their own identity and that of others. Our RE curriculum is designed to nurture the holistic development of every child, empowering them to thrive as active, compassionate citizens who comprehend the diverse landscape of religion and non-religion globally.

Our curriculum aims to:

• Offer distinctive learning experiences that incorporate religious artefacts and visits when suitable.
• Embrace non-religious perspectives, ensuring all children, regardless of religious background, can relate to their learning.
• Encourage critical examination of religious and world views, fostering an environment where perspectives are challenged.
• Equip children with both the essential skills for RE learning and the relevant knowledge.

The teaching of RE aligns with the recommendations outlined in the Sutton Agreed Syllabus (2020) established by the Sutton Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE). SACRE holds a statutory responsibility to advise the local authority on the provision of religious education in accordance with an agreed syllabus, as well as to facilitate the effective delivery of collective worship. Additionally, SACRE is empowered to address any relevant matters pertaining to its functions and may extend its discussions to include the provision of RE in academies or address specific concerns referred to it. An academy or group of academies can be represented though co-option onto the local SACRE (or indeed any SACRE) if all parties are in agreement.

While parents possess a statutory entitlement to withdraw their children from Religious Education (RE) and assemblies, we advocate for open communication and dialogue regarding any concerns that may arise. We firmly believe in the inherent benefits of RE as an integral component of a broad, balanced, and inclusive curriculum. Therefore, we require parents considering such a decision to engage in conversation with the school, allowing us the opportunity to address any apprehensions and provide clarity before reaching a conclusion.

The SACRE (Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education) syllabus for Y1-6 is attached below, as is the curriculum road map.

Mr D Woolford is the Subject Leader for RE.