Religious Education (RE) Programme

At school we follow the Come and See scheme of work for RE, which fulfils the requirements of the Bishop's Conference and the Curriculum Directory for Religious Education, which sets forth the expectations for what should be covered by Religious Education teaching in Catholic Schools in England and Wales. RE is taught for 2 and a half hours per week which is 10% of curriculum time; this is separate from times of prayer and collective worship, such as assemblies, liturgies, and class prayer which happen in addition to the taught curriculum.

Children are assessed in RE through our use of the Diocesan assessment materials. Children are assessed using the terms: working towards, expected, or greater depth. Children’s attainment is recorded on class tracker sheets. RE subject leads meet with class teachers on a half-termly basis to discuss children’s attainment and progress, as well as next steps. Teachers bring children’s books to these meetings to moderate with the subject leaders. All staff are given continuing professional development (CPD) in order to help them assess confidently.

As well as covering the delivery of Catholic Education, Come and See also contains the resources and units required for us to regularly teach children about other world religions, one a term, in order that they develop an appreciation for belief in a wider sense and are appreciative and respectful of the religious beliefs, practices, and observances of others. The aim is to enable them to be responsible and constructive members of the multicultural, multifaith society in which they live.

Involvement of Parents/CarersOur school recognises parents as the first educators of their children and sees the involvement of the school as being an ongoing partnership with parents. Parents have access to the RE policy, which is on our school website. We believe that they have an important part to play in teaching their children about the beliefs and traditions of the Catholic faith, as well as helping their children to develop a personal faith.

 

 

Inclusion

All children have equal access to the RE curriculum, regardless of religion, gender, culture, or special educational needs. Full participation in all aspects of RE is expected. As a Catholic school, Jesus Christ remains central to every aspect of school life. All pupils are educated in the beliefs and devotional practices of the Catholic Church. Parents and carers are advised at our open morning and welcome meetings that, in desiring a Catholic education for their child, it is expected that all pupils will participate in RE lessons. Parents and carers have the right to withdraw their children, although this is strongly discouraged and we would welcome the opportunity for them to discuss this with The Headship Team.