Welcome to RE at Faith Primary Academy

Intent

Our intent is driven by our mission statement, ‘Loving and Learning in the Light of the Lord.’

We believe in supporting children to develop a moral compass based on the Gospel Values. Our three core values, Compassion, Inclusion and Respect are promoted in RE lessons and in all areas of school life. We believe that our Christian values help our children to know themselves, learn to reflect on their experiences, explore the questions of how to live and treat others and so reach a set of beliefs by which to guide their lives.

As a joint denominational church school, the traditions of the Church of England and Catholic Church are valued and sustained through Religious Education by the whole school community and we are committed to the development of the whole person. Our RE lessons are dedicated to supporting our children’s spiritual, moral, emotional, intellectual, social and physical development. Through our RE curriculum, we strive to develop pupils’ ability to express their own beliefs and ideas clearly and respectfully, fostering a sense of community and belonging within our diverse school community.

Implementation

Come and See (Y3-6)

As we are a joint Church of England and Catholic school, we teach RE in KS2  through an adapted version of the Catholic ‘Come and See’ curriculum. At the heart of the programme is the mystery of God’s self-revelation of love through Jesus Christ. Come and See gives pupils the opportunity to explore the mystery of faith and allows the children to search, to explore, to discover and to respond. Central to the programme are three basic human questions and the three Christian beliefs that are the church’s response in faith.

• Where do I come from? (Life – creation)
• Who am I? (Dignity – incarnation)
• Why am I here? (Purpose – redemption)

New Religious Education Directory ‘To know You more clearly.’ (EYFS-Y2)

This is a new programme of study, a model curriculum, to be taught in Primary and Secondary Schools.  It is linked to the Catholic Liturgical Year with a six Branch structure, one Branch per half term. The Branches are as follows:

1. Creation and Covenant
2. Prophecy and Promise
3. Galilee to Jerusalem
4. Desert to Garden
5. Ends of the Earth
6. Dialogue and Encounter.

‘To know You more clearly’ has been implemented in EYFS and KS1 in the academic year 2023-2024 and will be roll out to KS2 during 2024-2026.

We use a variety of teaching approaches, including group discussions, role-playing, visits to places of worship, and engaging with artefacts and texts from different religious traditions. We incorporate opportunities for pupils to reflect on their own beliefs and experiences, encouraging personal and spiritual development.

RE at Faith is enhanced by the wonderful community we have around us. Visits from clergy from both St. Peter’s and St. Francis Xavier’s church are organised regularly and members of the community are invited to school to engage with the children during lessons. In addition, the children visit churches, both cathedrals and other places of worship. Learning about other cultures and religions is an important part of the children’s education and each year they will learn about Judaism and Islam, in addition to Christianity.

Impact

Religious Education at Faith Academy ensures that children gain knowledge and understanding of Christianity and other principal world religions.

The impact of our curriculum at Faith is evident in the holistic development of our pupils as respectful, informed, and empathetic individuals. Pupils demonstrate an understanding of different religions and worldviews, showing tolerance and appreciation for diversity within society. They engage confidently in discussions about ethical and moral issues, demonstrating critical thinking skills and the ability to articulate their thoughts clearly and respectfully.

Pupils develop a strong sense of empathy and respect for others, fostering positive relationships and a sense of belonging within the school community. Pupils show a willingness to engage with challenging concepts and ideas, demonstrating a curiosity and openness to learning about different faith traditions and beliefs.

The impact of our Religious Education curriculum extends beyond academic achievement to promote the social, emotional, and spiritual well-being of our pupils. Pupils leave Faith Primary Academy with an inclusive understanding of the role of religion in society, equipped with the skills and values needed to navigate an increasingly diverse and multicultural world.

“I can do everything through him who gives me strength” Philippians 4:13

Come and See Topics

Domestic Church Family
Baptism/Confirmation/Belonging
Advent/Christmas/Loving
Local Church Community
Eucharist Relating
Lent/Easter/Giving
Pentecost/Serving
Reconciliation/Inter-relating
Universal Church World

For more information on our RE curriculum and Spiritual life, please choose the ‘Spiritual Live of Faith School’ tab in ‘Key Information’.