R.E
RE at Bradshaw will develop well-rounded British citizens with a strong understanding of different beliefs and opinions. Enquiry and investigation is at the heart of learning in RE, with many opportunities for personal reflection. Units of work focus on a key question related to the subject content of the syllabus and will allow pupils to analyse the question, investigate beliefs and values, and offer reasoned responses. Pupils learn to express themselves, communicate effectively and listen carefully to other’s views. Pupils are provided with a rich, relevant and challenging curriculum which helps pupils develop their own beliefs and values, and promotes virtues of respect and empathy, which are fundamental in our diverse society.
In Preschool and Reception, RE is approached in a creative and explorative way through a variety of areas of learning. The Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum teaches RE through the Educational Programme ‘Understanding of the World’ which guides pupils to make sense of the physical world and their community. Pupils will recognise some similarities and differences between different religions and cultural communities within the United Kingdom drawing on their own personal experiences and the information shared in class. Pupils will learn about the meanings of different festivals and develop their understanding of others through teacher led sessions that feed into differentiated tasks in provision which extend their learning further.
Calderdale’s agreed syllabus ‘Believing and Belonging’ will be used to teach RE to pupils in Key Stage 1 and 2. This syllabus reflects the religious traditions of Great Britain, which are mainly Christian, whilst taking into account the teaching and practices of the other religions represented both locally and nationally. Our RE curriculum ensures there is depth of study (some areas being investigated in detail) and breadth (a general understanding of the faiths and related philosophical and ethical questions).The curriculum provides progression in coverage of religions and world views. The units taught provide a varied and exciting curriculum across the key stages and ensure children are building upon prior knowledge. Lessons engage children with questions about meaning and existence, and inspire children to make the right moral decisions. Content is broken down into small, sequenced learning chunks ensuring good progress is made by all pupils.
Promoting RE Across School
At Bradshaw Primary School we raise the profile of RE by providing a range of opportunities for the children to access during the school year. These opportunities can include but are not limited to:
- Open the book assemblies lead by church volunteers who share stories from the Bible.
- Assemblies throughout the year to explore the Christian beliefs of Harvest, Christmas and Easter.
- Appropriate and meaningful trips and visitors to enhance the RE curriculum.
- All pupils attend an assembly with a Spiritual, Moral, Social or Cultural (SMSC) focus each week.
SEND
The RE curriculum is inclusive to all pupils, including those with SEND. Every child has access to a broad and balanced curriculum. Teachers assess potential barriers and make appropriate adaptations to ensure each child can achieve well. Support for pupils with SEND may include: chunking learning into smaller steps, explicit instructions, additional scaffolds, modelling skills and new learning, adapted technology and equipment, and aids to support communication and language development.
Assessment
Learning is assessed throughout lessons to inform planning for subsequent lessons and units of work. Regular assessment ensures pupils build on their knowledge, understanding and key skills. Teachers will assess pupils’ misconceptions and successes resulting in effective feedback and good progress. Verbal feedback will be given throughout each lesson to provide pupils with the acknowledgment of achievement or any next steps they need to take.