RE
"Learning Together, Aiming for Excellence"
At Withymoor Primary School, Religious Education (RE) is an essential part of our curriculum and supports the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of all pupils. We follow the Dudley Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education, which provides a rich and balanced framework that reflects the diverse society in which we live.
RE at Withymoor is not about promoting religion but about exploring different beliefs and values in a respectful, inclusive, and thoughtful way. Our aim is to nurture open-minded, reflective learners who are able to understand the beliefs of others while developing their own views and identity.
Intent
Through our RE curriculum, we aim to:
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Develop pupils' knowledge and understanding of a range of religions and world views, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism.
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Encourage children to reflect on their own beliefs, values, and experiences.
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Promote respect, tolerance, and empathy towards others, regardless of faith or background.
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Provide opportunities for pupils to ask and explore "big questions" about life, meaning, purpose, and morality.
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Support children in developing a strong sense of identity and belonging, while celebrating diversity.
Implementation
RE is taught regularly across the school in line with the expectations of the Dudley Agreed Syllabus. The syllabus promotes a two-fold approach:
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Learning About Religion
Pupils explore religious stories, beliefs, practices, festivals, symbols, and places of worship. They compare and contrast different faiths and learn about how religion influences the lives of believers. -
Learning From Religion
Children are encouraged to reflect on what they have learnt and make personal connections. They consider how religious teachings relate to their own lives, relationships, and the wider world.
We use a variety of teaching approaches, including discussion, storytelling, role-play, drama, visits to places of worship, and the use of artefacts and digital resources. Lessons are inclusive, engaging, and accessible to all.
Impact
By the end of their time at Withymoor, pupils will:
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Have a broad and balanced understanding of major world religions and non-religious worldviews.
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Be able to articulate their own beliefs and values confidently and respectfully.
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Show understanding and appreciation of the beliefs and practices of others.
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Demonstrate critical thinking skills when discussing moral and philosophical questions.
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Be well-prepared for life in modern Britain, embracing diversity and contributing positively to their community.
British Values and SMSC
RE plays a central role in promoting British Values such as mutual respect, tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs, and individual liberty. It also makes a significant contribution to pupils’ Spiritual, Moral, Social, and Cultural (SMSC) development by encouraging reflection, empathy, and ethical awareness.
Further Information
We follow the Dudley Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education which is reviewed and updated regularly by Dudley SACRE (Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education). You can find more information about the syllabus and its aims on the Dudley Council website.
For any questions about RE at Withymoor, or to view curriculum maps and progression documents, please contact the school office or our RE subject leader.
Right to Withdraw from Religious Education (RE)
In line with statutory requirements, Religious Education (RE) is taught to all pupils as part of the school curriculum. However, parents and carers have the legal right to withdraw their child from all or part of RE, if they wish.
If you are considering withdrawal, we encourage you to contact the Headteacher to discuss your request. This helps us ensure we understand your wishes, explain how RE is taught in our school, and make suitable arrangements for your child.
We fully respect and support the rights of parents and carers in this matter, as set out in the Education Act 1996 and School Standards and Framework Act 1998.