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Religious Education

Religious Education at Manuden Primary School

A small school with big ideas… Growing hearts, Growing minds, Growing dreams!

Our Intent

At Manuden Primary School, Religious Education helps pupils develop an understanding of the diverse beliefs and cultures that shape our world. Through RE, pupils explore different religions and worldviews while developing respect, curiosity and empathy for others.

Our RE curriculum supports our school vision of growing hearts, growing minds and growing dreams by encouraging pupils to reflect on their own values and beliefs while learning about those of others. Through discussion, enquiry and reflection, pupils develop an understanding of how religion and belief influence individuals, communities and societies.

We aim to equip pupils with the knowledge and understanding needed to appreciate diversity, think critically about beliefs and values, and show respect for people whose views may differ from their own.

Our Implementation

Planning and Curriculum Structure

Religious Education at Manuden Primary School is taught using the Saffron Religious Education Scheme, developed by Saffron Academy Trust. This carefully structured curriculum ensures that pupils develop a clear and progressive understanding of a range of religions and worldviews as they move through the school.

Through this scheme, pupils learn about major world religions and belief systems, including:

  • Christianity

  • Islam

  • Hinduism

  • Judaism

  • Humanism and other worldviews

Units are designed around key enquiry questions that encourage pupils to explore beliefs, practices and traditions while reflecting on their own ideas and experiences.

Enquiry and Reflection

RE lessons encourage pupils to think deeply and ask questions about religion, belief and values. Pupils are given opportunities to:

  • Explore religious stories, teachings and traditions

  • Discuss similarities and differences between beliefs and practices

  • Reflect on values such as kindness, respect and responsibility

  • Consider how beliefs influence people’s choices and ways of life

This enquiry-based approach helps pupils develop both understanding and critical thinking skills.

Vocabulary and Knowledge

Key religious vocabulary is explicitly taught and revisited throughout each unit. Pupils learn the language needed to discuss beliefs, traditions and practices respectfully and confidently.

Teachers support pupils in developing their understanding through discussion, reflection and the exploration of religious texts, artefacts and traditions.

Assessment

Assessment in RE focuses on pupils’ understanding of key concepts and their ability to reflect on and discuss beliefs thoughtfully.

Teachers assess learning through:

  • Class discussions and questioning

  • Written reflections and responses

  • Creative work such as artwork, drama or presentations

  • Teacher observations during lessons

This approach allows pupils to demonstrate their understanding in a variety of meaningful ways.

Religious Education in the Early Years (EYFS)

In the Early Years, Religious Education is introduced through the Understanding the World area of learning. Children begin to explore similarities and differences between people, cultures and traditions.

Pupils are encouraged to:

  • Talk about their own families, traditions and celebrations

  • Learn about special times and festivals celebrated by different communities

  • Explore stories that introduce ideas about kindness, respect and caring for others

  • Develop curiosity about the world around them

These early experiences help children begin to understand that people have different beliefs and traditions.

RE in the Wider Curriculum

Religious Education supports pupils’ wider development and links closely with other subjects across the curriculum.

Examples include:

  • PSHE – exploring values such as respect, empathy and responsibility

  • History – understanding how religion has shaped societies and cultures

  • Geography – learning about different cultures and communities around the world

  • English – discussing stories and expressing ideas through speaking and writing

  • Art and Design – exploring religious symbols, patterns and architecture

These links help pupils understand how religion and belief influence the wider world.

Enrichment and Engagement

At Manuden Primary School, we aim to bring RE to life through meaningful experiences. Opportunities may include:

  • Learning about and celebrating different religious festivals

  • Visits to local places of worship

  • Visits from members of different faith communities

  • Exploring artefacts, music and traditions linked to different religions

These experiences help pupils develop a deeper understanding of religious traditions and cultural diversity.

The Impact of Our RE Curriculum

By the time pupils leave Manuden Primary School, they will:

  • Have a broad understanding of a range of religions and worldviews

  • Be able to discuss beliefs and traditions respectfully and thoughtfully

  • Understand how religion and belief influence people’s lives and communities

  • Demonstrate curiosity and respect towards different cultures and beliefs

  • Reflect on their own values and the values that shape society

Through Religious Education, pupils develop the knowledge and understanding needed to become respectful, thoughtful and open-minded members of society.