Religious Education
Our intent is that our children develop a deeper understanding of the six major world religions, making sense of religion and belief, at an appropriate level of challenge for their age. We intend to help our children to build upon their knowledge and understanding and to develop sensitivity, empathy and communication with people who may hold different beliefs to their own. We implement this in a way that ensures that all religious beliefs are treated with equal respect. We value the links, which are made between home, school, and throughout the north east. We acknowledge and appreciate that each religion studied can contribute to the education of all our pupils and seek to broaden their experiences beyond that of our immediate area. We promote teaching in Religious Education that stresses open enquiry and first-hand experiences wherever possible, for both staff and children. The impact is that children are taught to value and respect the religious backgrounds of all people in our school, wider community and beyond, asking thoughtful questions about the beliefs of others as well as questioning and reflecting upon their own thoughts and ideas.
Religious Education in EYFS
The Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum supports children’s understanding of Religious Education through the planning and teaching of ‘Understanding the World’. Children are encouraged to use their imagination and curiosity to develop their appreciation of, and wonder at, the world in which they live. Exploring others views, cultures and beliefs supports children in developing their views and beliefs about themselves, their family and community. In finding out about others, young children are encouraged to reflect on belief, culture and practice and explore faith through observing festivals and celebrations, sharing stories, visuals, toys and puppets, handling real artefacts, roleplay, books and discussion.
RE in KS1 & KS2
Our R.E curriculum is matched to the needs of our pupils and is in line with the Durham Syllabus for R.E. Each key stage has key religions to focus upon, whilst maintaining Christianity as the main area of study throughout school. Progression of knowledge, understanding and personal reflection is interwoven into each lesson.
Documents relating to our R.E. curriculum can be found below. We have taken the aims and objectives from the National Curriculum and used them to create the Castleside R.E. Curriculum.