Religious Education
Intent
At Hertford Heath, the Religious Education (RE) curriculum is designed to develop pupils’ understanding of religion and worldviews, enabling them to explore beliefs, practices, values and ways of life in a respectful and thoughtful manner. Using the Hertfordshire Agreed Syllabus of Religious Education as the basis of our curriculum, we provide a broad, balanced and carefully sequenced programme that reflects the diversity of religion and worldviews in modern Britain.
Our intent is for pupils to gain knowledge and understanding of a range of religious and non-religious worldviews, whilst also developing the skills to ask thoughtful questions, reflect on their own ideas and engage in respectful dialogue. Through the study of key concepts, sacred texts, celebrations, traditions and the lived experiences of believers, pupils develop an awareness of how beliefs influence individuals, communities and wider society.
We want pupils to leave primary school with a secure understanding of the major faiths and worldviews represented in the curriculum, alongside the ability to compare, reflect and respond with maturity. The curriculum supports pupils to develop empathy, curiosity and respect, helping them to appreciate difference and to understand the importance of RE in a diverse society.
Implementation
RE is taught through the Hertfordshire Agreed Syllabus, which provides a clear and progressive framework for learning from Early Years through to the end of Key Stage 2. The curriculum is carefully sequenced so that pupils revisit key concepts and deepen their understanding over time.
Teachers use the syllabus to ensure that pupils are taught a balance of learning about religion and worldviews and learning from religion and worldviews. Lessons typically include opportunities for pupils to:
- explore core beliefs and teachings
- study sacred texts, stories and symbols
- learn about worship, festivals, rites of passage and religious practices
- consider how beliefs shape behaviour and community life
- reflect on their own responses, experiences and values
- ask and answer thoughtful questions using subject-specific vocabulary
The curriculum is designed to promote disciplinary thinking, allowing pupils to identify similarities and differences, consider meaning and significance, and develop their ability to make connections across beliefs and traditions. Teachers use high-quality resources, discussion, artefacts and visual materials to make learning engaging and accessible.
RE is taught in a respectful and inclusive environment where pupils are encouraged to listen carefully, share ideas thoughtfully and recognise that people may hold different beliefs and views. Teaching is adapted to support all learners through modelling, clear explanations, structured discussion and appropriate scaffolding.
The curriculum also supports wider school values by encouraging reflection, empathy, tolerance and understanding. Pupils are given opportunities to explore the relevance of RE to their own lives and to the world around them, helping them to become informed and considerate members of a diverse society.
Parents have the right to withdraw their child/children from part of all Religious Education lessons. Parents considering withdrawing their child/children are requested to contact the Headteacher to arrange a discussion.