The right to withdraw from RE:
Religion and belief have become more visible in public life in recent years, making it important that all young people should have an opportunity to engage in RE. However, parents/carers may request that their child be excused from all or part of the religious education (RE) provided. No reasons need be given.
Important - limitations to withdraw
Our curriculum for RE is based on the agreed Syllabus for Religious Education in Calderdale, Kirklees and Leeds (2024-2029).
This syllabus is called “Believing and Belonging” and it includes two key elements. First, it is about beliefs and values which aims to develop pupils’ understanding of world faiths and other beliefs, exploring their similarities and differences in a multicultural world. Secondly, it is about ‘belonging’. This helps pupils’ acknowledge that others hold beliefs different to their own. It allows a child to build on their spiritual awareness and to appreciate diversity. Through learning to problem solve and evaluate and build on their thinking skills and reflect upon this, children become respectful citizens in today’s world. RE is an important subject in our school as it develops pupils’ tolerance towards different faiths and religions. RE supports children’s education in school by discussing the meaning and purpose in life, beliefs about different faiths, issues of right and wrong and what it means to be human. RE is for opening minds, not closing them.
In EYFS, Religious Education is woven into the ‘Understanding the World’ area of learning, which helps children make sense of their community and the wider world. Through real-life experiences, storytelling, and practical activities, children explore themes such as kindness, respect, and cultural celebrations. In EYFS, children have the opportunity to listen to and reflect on moral and spiritual stories, encouraging them to consider right and wrong and the impact of their actions on others. Festivals and traditions from various religions are introduced through hands-on activities, such as role play, arts and crafts, and music. Children are also encouraged to ask questions and share their thoughts, fostering curiosity and critical thinking. These early experiences lay the foundation for structured RE learning in Year 1, where pupils begin to explore religious beliefs and values in greater depth. In Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 RE is taught through discrete lessons. Throughout their time at Field Lane, the children will visit a mosque, church and at least one other place of worship.
Teachers set high expectations for all pupils. They will use appropriate assessment to set ambitious targets and plan challenging work for all groups, including:
Teachers will plan lessons so that pupils with SEN and/or disabilities can study every subject, wherever possible, and ensure that there are no barriers to every pupil achieving.
Teachers use inclusive high quality teaching to meet the needs of all pupils through an adapted curriculum
Teachers will also take account of the needs of pupils whose first language is not English.
Further information can be found in our statement of equality information and objectives, and in our SEN policy and information report.
By following the curriculum, children will gain skills and knowledge which will allow them to enhance their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. RE is assessed, recorded and reported through activities such as discussions with pupils, listening and reflecting on stories and observations.
R.E Syllabus 2024-2029