Religious Education

'Differences were meant not to divide but to enrich.'

- J.H. Oldham

RE Curriculum Design Statement

Curriculum Intent

At Richard Wakefield CE Primary Academy, we believe it is vital for all pupils to learn from and about religion so they can gain an awareness of the world around them. Through Religious Education, pupils develop their knowledge of different world faiths and their understanding of beliefs, values and traditions of other communities and cultures. As a Church of England school, we have a particular focus on Christianity to develop children’s spiritual and emotional wellbeing. We encourage children to ask questions and reflect on their own beliefs, values and experiences. Our RE curriculum is enhanced by visits to different places of worship and visits from local religious leaders.

We use the agreed Staffordshire Religious Education Syllabus and planning from the Diocese of Lichfield as well as ‘Understanding Christianity’ as the basis for our curriculum.

Curriculum Implementation

Teachers follow a long-term plan that spans over two years. Each unit is either from ‘Understanding Christianity’, Diocese planning or the Staffordshire Syllabus. Lessons include a variety of activities to allow the children to delve deeper into their understanding of different religions, bible stories and traditions. We also have high expectations for writing and therefore take opportunities to apply these skills in RE to reflect on particular topics. Book scrutinies are done termly to monitor coverage of the curriculum and progression of skills. 

Curriculum Impact

Religious Education at our school is high quality, well thought out and planned to show progression. As part of formative assessment, we use a progression skills grid that is used across the trust to track children’s progress. We believe that our school provides rich opportunities for children to develop their understanding of faith and how it can shape their values and actions.

Please find our Religious Education progression map here, highlighting the skills taught in each year group.