At St James’ Church of England Primary Academy, Religious Education plays a central role in our Christian ethos, encouraging children to explore questions of faith, belief, meaning and purpose. Our engaging and inclusive RE curriculum inspires curiosity, reflection and respect, helping pupils develop a deeper understanding of Christianity alongside other world religions and beliefs.

We believe that Religious Education provides valuable opportunities for children to consider their own beliefs and values, appreciate the perspectives of others and develop the knowledge and understanding needed to live respectfully in a diverse society. Through thoughtful discussion, enquiry and reflection, we aim to nurture compassionate, confident and responsible individuals who recognise the importance of faith, spirituality and belonging.

How We Teach Religious Education

Religious Education is taught weekly throughout the school, with a carefully structured curriculum that develops children's knowledge and understanding from Reception through to Year 6.

Our teaching draws upon the Understanding Christianity approach, using enquiry-based learning and challenging 'Big Questions' to encourage pupils to explore important religious concepts and develop their own thoughtful responses.

Children investigate key Christian beliefs, including Creation, Incarnation, Salvation and the Kingdom of God, building on their understanding as they progress through the school.

Alongside Christianity, pupils explore a range of religions and worldviews, including Judaism, Islam, Hinduism and Humanism. Through studying religious stories, festivals, traditions and practices, children develop an appreciation of both the similarities and differences between people's beliefs and experiences.

Lessons incorporate discussion, storytelling, practical activities, reflection and opportunities for children to express their own ideas and understanding.

Spiritual Development and Christian Values

As a Church of England school, we recognise the importance of Religious Education in supporting children's spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

Our RE curriculum provides opportunities for pupils to reflect on important questions about life, relationships, identity, justice and responsibility, encouraging them to consider how beliefs and values influence the choices people make.

We encourage children to approach different religions and worldviews with curiosity, understanding and respect, recognising that every individual has their own experiences, beliefs and perspectives.

Through meaningful discussion and reflection, children develop empathy, confidence and the ability to engage thoughtfully with complex questions.

Our ambition is for every child to leave St James' with a secure understanding of Christianity, an appreciation of religious and cultural diversity, and the confidence to explore their own beliefs and values.

Our Religious Education Curriculum

Find out more about our Religious Education curriculum by exploring the documents below:

• RE – Intent, Implementation and Impact: How we teach Religious Education, our curriculum aims and what we want children to achieve.

• RE Curriculum Overview: An overview of the religious concepts, enquiry questions, faiths and worldviews studied from Reception through to Year 6.

• RE Skills Progression: How children's skills in religious enquiry, reflection, interpretation, discussion and evaluation develop throughout Key Stages 1 and 2.