Intent

At Milking Bank Primary School, we believe that RE has an important role to play as part of a broad, balanced and coherent curriculum to which all pupils are entitled. It provides a positive context in which the diversity of cultures, beliefs and values in society can be celebrated and explored.

RE provides an opportunity to promote an ethos of respect for others. Lessons ensure that our children grow to become tolerant and respectful citizens, who appreciate that everybody has their own set of beliefs and values and that these may differ from their own.

Our curriculum encourages children to ask and reflect on challenging questions and provides opportunities for personal reflection where children can explore their own beliefs and opinions in a safe and supportive environment.

The RE curriculum links to both our PSHE curriculum and our work towards the Rights Respecting Schools Gold Award.

Implementation

We follow the Programme of Study for RE suggested in the Dudley Agreed Syllabus and have a long term plan which reflects this for each Key Stage. We also use Chris Quigley’s milestones to support progression throughout the school and to ensure that children build upon knowledge gained in previous years.

In Key Stage 1 and 2, the children are taught to understand other religions, to reflect and to understand values.

During Key Stage 1, children are taught about places of worship, ceremonies across faiths and the beliefs and features of Christianity.

In Key Stage 2, the children develop their knowledge of Christianity and are introduced to the features of Judaism, Hinduism and Islam. They are also taught about other thematic concepts such as: Religions in our area, water in religions, and religious leaders.

We have close links with local churches in the area who as well as providing a weekly assembly, talk to classes about their practices and beliefs. Year 3 and Year 5 attend a yearly interactive journey about Christmas and Easter which is also provided by our local church.

All religions are embraced and celebrated at Milking Bank, both in class and assemblies. We encourage children and parents to share their faiths, customs and celebrations.

Impact

Our RE curriculum is well thought out and is planned to demonstrate progression. Children demonstrate a positive attitude towards people of any religion and show an understanding of cultural beliefs different to their own.

They are respectful when meeting visitors from a variety of faith groups.