Religious Studies

Intent

At Byron Primary School, Religious Education helps pupils develop an understanding of the diverse beliefs, values and traditions that shape communities in Britain and around the world. Following the Bradford Agreed Syllabus Believing and Belonging, pupils build secure knowledge of Christianity, Islam, Sikhi, Judaism, Hindu Dharma, Buddhism and non-religious worldviews while developing the skills to ask questions, compare perspectives and think critically about important issues. 

Our curriculum is carefully sequenced from EYFS to Year 6 so that pupils progressively deepen their understanding of religion, belief, belonging, identity and diversity. Through enquiry, discussion and reflection, pupils learn to appreciate different viewpoints, challenge stereotypes and develop the mutual respect needed to thrive in modern Britain. RE supports our school values of Respect, Aspire and Succeed by encouraging curiosity, empathy and thoughtful discussion. 

Implementation

Our Religious Education curriculum follows the Bradford Agreed Syllabus and is organised around six key learning pathways:

• The nature of religion and belief
• Expressing belief
• A good life
• Personal journey
• Influence and authority
• The big picture

These pathways are revisited throughout the school, allowing pupils to build and deepen their knowledge over time. Learning begins in EYFS through exploration of family, community, celebration and belonging before progressing into more complex studies of faith, identity, authority, morality and worldviews in Key Stages 1 and 2. 

Pupils learn through enquiry-based questions, discussions, stories, artefacts, sacred texts, visits, visitors and opportunities to explore religious and non-religious perspectives. Vocabulary is explicitly taught and revisited to help pupils communicate their understanding accurately and confidently. Over time, pupils move from recognising and describing beliefs and practices to comparing, interpreting, evaluating and giving reasoned responses to significant questions. 

Impact

By the time pupils leave Byron Primary School, they have developed a secure understanding of a range of religions and worldviews and can make meaningful connections between beliefs, values and ways of life. They are able to use subject-specific vocabulary accurately, discuss religious and non-religious perspectives respectfully and explain similarities and differences between traditions. 

Pupils leave as respectful, informed and reflective young people who are prepared for life in a diverse society. They understand the importance of tolerance, mutual respect and open-mindedness and are equipped to engage thoughtfully with different beliefs and experiences throughout their lives.

RE-Progression of knowledge and skills RE -  Curriculum MapRE -  Progression of Vocabulary