ST THOMAS
CE PRIMARY SCHOOL
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Religious Education
INTENT
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At St Thomas we follow the Agreed Syllabus for Kirklees, Calderdale and Leeds Diocese. Our intent is to develop children’s understanding and knowledge of different religions as they progress through the school. Our pupils will gain a deeper understanding of Christianity through the teaching of Christian concepts.
Our RE curriculum offers opportunities for pupils to know and understand about other major religions and world views. Our curriculum will enable children to explore answers to thought-provoking questions and develop a confidence to talk about their own beliefs.
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The Agreed Syllabus entitled, Believing and Belonging, reflects the twin aims that RE must stimulate interest and nurture understanding of religion/worldviews, while also contributing to pupils’ awareness of and sensitivity to diversity in our communities and world.
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IMPLEMENTATION
The syllabus is designed around six learning pathways and act as the framework for sequencing learning in religion and worldviews at both key stages. While organising the curriculum along these pathways, learners concurrently develop substantive knowledge of specific religions/worldviews. The syllabus requires a school curriculum to both: - achieve a broad, but rigorous, understanding of religions/worldviews in the context of our local communities and our country; - provide for deeper focused study of specific topics and questions.
Our teaching encourages pupils to develop their questioning skills and add their own views and opinions to religious topics. Opportunities are given for children to follow knowledge organisers and express both substantive and composite Knowledge. Pupils can also show their understanding using different methods of presentation i.e. music, art, drama / movement, outdoor learning and use of discussion and debate. As part of their development for understanding other religions our pupils also visit places of worship.
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SEND
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At St Thomas Primary, we provide high-quality RE for all children, whatever their ability, supporting their spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development. Learning opportunities are carefully adapted through scaffolds, structured tasks, and varied teaching styles to meet individual needs. All pupils, including those with SEND or in receipt of pupil premium funding, are supported to access RE fully and engage meaningfully with beliefs, values, and practices.
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IMPACT
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Pupils are assessed on their knowledge and understanding of each unit through a related task.
Across all year groups, learning is structured around six key pathways:
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· The Nature of Religion and Belief
· Expressing Belief
· A Good Life
· Personal Journey
· Influence and Authority
· The Big Picture
This curriculum is designed to develop learners’ understanding of religions and worldviews, exploring both their commonalities and differences. It provides a broad and balanced perspective, enabling pupils to appreciate the diversity of belief and practice in the world around them.
Learners are encouraged to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and engage thoughtfully with different beliefs and cultures. Through this, they gain a deeper understanding of shared humanity and our collective responsibility for the Earth.
The curriculum also supports pupils in exploring their own identity, values, and sense of purpose. It aims to broaden perspectives, promote respect and tolerance for diversity, and nurture open-mindedness.
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Ultimately, it seeks to empower pupils to develop their own personal worldview, fostering self-awareness, empathy, and a commitment to being positive, active citizens in a global community.
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RELEVANT DOCUMENTS
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