Religious Education (RE)

Religious Education (RE) at Churcham

Learning, respecting and growing together as a whole school family

Our Vision for Religious Education at Churcham

Religious Education at Churcham Primary School helps pupils understand themselves, others and the diverse worldviews that shape our local community and wider society. Through a rich and balanced curriculum, pupils explore big questions, develop empathy, reflect on values and deepen their understanding of how beliefs influence people’s lives.

We follow the Gloucestershire Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education (2025–2030), ensuring pupils gain meaningful insight into religious and non‑religious worldviews and are equipped to flourish as thoughtful, respectful and reflective citizens.

INTENT

Our RE curriculum promotes cultural diversity, fosters empathy and encourages pupils to reflect on life’s big questions. It supports children to develop their own beliefs and values while understanding those held by others.

We aim for pupils to:

  • Understand how religious and non‑religious worldviews influence people’s lives

  • Explore traditions, practices and ways of life across a range of faiths

  • Foster respect, tolerance and curiosity about different beliefs

  • Develop a strong sense of self, stewardship and personal responsibility

  • Engage with rich learning experiences, including visits to places of worship and encounters with faith communities

  • Contribute positively to society through values such as kindness, fairness, respect and responsibility

  • Access RE fully, regardless of background or belief

Our curriculum inspires a sense of wonder about religion, spirituality and belief, helping pupils better understand themselves and the world around them.

IMPLEMENTATION

RE is taught in mixed‑age classes using a four‑year rolling plan in KS2 and a three‑year rolling plan in KS1, ensuring progression and breadth. Adaptations are made within both classes to meet the needs of all learners.

Curriculum Structure

Teaching is informed by:

  • The Gloucestershire Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education (2025–2030)

  • NATRE guidance and resources

These frameworks support pupils to become religiously and non‑religiously literate, exploring beliefs through three core elements:

  1. Make sense of a range of religious and non‑religious beliefs

  2. Understand the impact of those beliefs

  3. Make connections between beliefs and their own views and experiences

Teaching Approaches

Pupils explore religious concepts through a wide range of creative and reflective activities, including:

  • Art and music

  • Drama and storytelling

  • Thinking skills and discussion

  • Use of artefacts, pictures and texts

  • Opportunities for reflection

Visits to local places of worship and visits from faith communities enrich learning and deepen understanding of world religions.

Progression

Children begin exploring religious ideas in the Foundation Stage and build depth and complexity as they move through the school, developing secure knowledge by Year 6.

IMPACT

Our RE curriculum enables pupils to “shine their light” by developing curiosity, respect and a deep understanding of diverse beliefs and worldviews. Pupils become thoughtful, reflective and compassionate individuals who can engage confidently with different perspectives.

By the end of Key Stage 2, pupils:

  • Have secure knowledge of a broad range of religious and non‑religious worldviews

  • Understand how beliefs influence actions, choices and ways of life

  • Can articulate their own views with clarity and respect

  • Show empathy and understanding towards others

  • Demonstrate responsible citizenship within and beyond school

  • Navigate moral and ethical questions with confidence

RE plays a central role in pupils’ personal development. Through exploring themes such as kindness, resilience, fairness, respect and responsibility, pupils learn to apply these values in their relationships, learning behaviours and wider community interactions. These attributes help pupils become positive role models who contribute to a harmonious school culture and a more inclusive society.

Why RE Matters at Churcham

Religious Education helps pupils:

  • Understand themselves and others

  • Appreciate diversity and global perspectives

  • Develop empathy, respect and compassion

  • Reflect on values and moral questions

  • Build confidence expressing their own beliefs

  • Contribute positively to their community

Our curriculum ensures every child becomes a reflective, respectful and informed member of society.