Religious Education

Curriculum Planning

Our RE curriculum is thoughtfully planned using the NATRE Primary RE Curriculum, which provides a balanced and inclusive framework. It ensures pupils gain knowledge of major world religions and non-religious worldviews, while also developing skills in critical thinking, empathy, and personal reflection.

Key features include:

• Clear sequencing that builds knowledge and understanding progressively from Early Years through Key Stage 2.
• Focus on enquiry-based learning where pupils ask and explore big questions about meaning, purpose, and values.
• Integration of the school’s HEART values, promoting honest dialogue, respect for all beliefs, and accountability in understanding others.
• Opportunities to connect learning in RE with wider curriculum areas, including Literacy and PSHE, to deepen pupils’ contextual understanding.

Teaching Approach

Our teaching in RE is inclusive, engaging, and reflective of the diverse community we serve. Teachers employ:

• Enquiry-led lessons that encourage pupils to explore and articulate their own ideas and beliefs alongside those of others.
• Use of stories, artefacts, visits, and visitors to bring religious and cultural traditions to life.
• Structured discussions and debates to develop pupils’ ability to listen, respect differing viewpoints, and express their own thoughts clearly.
• Explicit teaching of key vocabulary related to religions and worldviews to support language development and conceptual understanding.
• Differentiated approaches to ensure all pupils, including those with SEND, can access and participate fully in RE learning.

Interactive Learning & Engagement

We believe that RE should inspire curiosity and personal growth. Our lessons include:

• Hands-on activities such as exploring religious artefacts, role play, and creative responses like art and drama.
• Opportunities for pupils to visit local places of worship and engage with representatives from different faith communities.
• Use of multimedia and storytelling to make learning vivid and relatable.
• Encouragement for pupils to reflect on their own values and experiences in relation to what they learn, fostering personal development and empathy.

Fostering Respect, Understanding & Moral Development

RE at Chiseldon supports pupils to become thoughtful, respectful individuals who understand the importance of diversity and shared humanity. We:

• Promote the school’s HEART values through RE, embedding honesty, respect, and trust in how pupils learn about and discuss beliefs.
• Encourage pupils to consider ethical questions and develop a sense of accountability for their actions.
• Support pupils in developing a positive identity and understanding of others, preparing them for life in a diverse society.
• Celebrate cultural and religious festivals to enrich pupils’ appreciation of different traditions and community life.

Assessment

Assessment in RE is ongoing and designed to capture pupils’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes. Our approach includes:

• Formative assessment through observation, questioning, and pupil-led discussions to gauge understanding and engagement.
• Use of reflective tasks where pupils express their personal responses and learning journeys.
• Summative assessments aligned with curriculum goals to track progression in knowledge of religions, enquiry skills, and respect for diversity.
• Opportunities for pupils to self-assess and set personal goals related to their understanding and values development.

This assessment framework supports continuous improvement and ensures RE contributes meaningfully to pupils’ holistic education.