Religious Education at Bewdley Primary School - Statement of Intent

It is our intent for the Religious Education element of our school curriculum to engage, inspire, challenge and encourage pupils, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to answer challenging questions, explore different religious beliefs, values and traditions and develop a more rigorous understanding of the numerous religious traditions, beliefs and practices that are followed in our multi-cultural society. We will also equip pupils with other non-religious or worldviews which may, or may not, reflect their own beliefs and those represented by our local community specifically. We want them to know how religious education promotes discernment and enables pupils to combat prejudice, preparing them for adult life, employment and life-long learning.

Aims

Through covering the Worcestershire Agreed Syllabus, it is intended that R.E. lessons will provide pupils and staff opportunities to:

• Consider ‘big’ questions and reflect on such questions in order to better understand their own beliefs and the beliefs of others – whether faith based, non-faith based or humanist.
• Know about and understand a range of religious and world views – including humanist views
• Express ideas and insights about the nature, significance and impact of religions and worldviews
• Gain and deploy the skills needed to engage seriously with religions and worldviews

Further information about the progression of skills and knowledge in Religious Education can be found in the documents at the bottom of this page

Parents' Right to Withdraw from Religious Education

Religious Education (RE) is an important part of our broad and balanced curriculum at Bewdley Primary School. It enables children to develop an understanding of different religions, beliefs and worldviews, encouraging respect, tolerance and appreciation of diversity.

Parents and carers have the legal right to withdraw their child from all or part of Religious Education.

Parents do not need to provide a reason for requesting withdrawal. However, we welcome the opportunity to discuss our RE curriculum and answer any questions before arrangements are made. If you wish to withdraw your child from all or part of RE, please contact the Headteacher through the school office.

Where a child is withdrawn, the school will ensure that appropriate supervision arrangements are in place. The school is not required to provide alternative teaching. The right of withdrawal applies specifically to Religious Education and does not extend to other curriculum subjects in which religions or beliefs may be discussed.