R.E

Religious Education provides our pupils with the opportunity to ask life's big questions. We aim to engage, inspire and challenge our pupils; encouraging them to reflect on their own beliefs and values as well as making connections to the beliefs and values of others.

Intent

The planning and delivery of RE sessions at Mersea Island School aims to teach pupils to know about and understand a range of religious and non-religious worldviews so that they can participate positively in our diverse society. We want to equip pupils with a sense of belonging and a positive attitude towards those who hold religious beliefs different from their own.

RE lessons are taught in accordance with the Essex Agreed Syllabus 2022.

Implementation

Religious Education makes a significant contribution to the active promotion of mutual respect and tolerance of others’ faiths and beliefs. Our enquiry led approach allows pupils to make sense of religion and the rapidly changing and complex world in which they live. They will express ideas and insights about the nature, significance and impact of religious and non-religious worldviews through a multidisciplinary approach. We offer pupils a balance of theological, philosophical and human and social science-based questions that will encourage deeper thinking and understanding.

Religions and Worldviews Studied

EYFS –

Christianity and at least one other religion, religious belief or non-religious world view.

KS1 –

In depth investigation of Christianity and one other principle world religion or non-religious worldview.
Encountering at least one other principle religion or non-religious worldview reflected in the local context.

KS2 –

In depth investigation of Christianity and two other principle world religions or non-religious worldviews.
Encountering at least one other principle religion or non-religious worldview.

Each RE enquiry will follow a five-step enquiry-based approach – Engage, enquire, explore, evaluate and express.

Impact

High quality and engaging RE lessons will support children in becoming religiously literate. Pupils will be able to hold balanced and well-informed conversations about religion and worldviews. They will be informed and open-minded; knowing how to deal positively with controversial issues and begin to challenge stereotypes and prejudice. They will develop curiosity, respect, awareness and sensitivity towards others and will become prepared for life as citizens in a multi-cultural society.