Meet the Leaders

"RE is like an iceberg. As you unpack ideas, you come to understand deeper meaning."

 Year 9 pupil

The value of Religious Education within our Curriculum

We believe that studying religious and non-religious worldviews is essential if pupils are to be well prepared for life in our increasingly diverse society. Pupils need to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to make sense of the complex world in which they live so that they can 'respect religious and cultural differences and contribute to a cohesive and compassionate society' (RE Review 2013).

All staff at Prestolee understand that high quality teaching of Religious Education is fundamental to the development of pupil’s knowledge of the beliefs and practices of different religions and worldviews. We believe Religious Education gives pupils valuable insights into the diverse beliefs and opinions held by people today. It helps with their own personal development and supports an understanding of spiritual, moral, social and cultural questions. Religious Education is important when encouraging pupils to value themselves and the communities within which they live. Religious Education lessons offer a structured and safe space during curriculum time for reflection, discussion, dialogue and debate. They allow for timely and sensitive responses to be made to unforeseen events of a religious, moral or philosophical nature, whether local, national or global.

Intent

Our Religious Education curriculum aims to motivate and inspire children through an engaging curriculum that challenges all learners whilst ensuring Prestolee’s school values are always at the heart, leading to outstanding spiritual, moral and academic development of all pupils. Promoting inclusivity by exposing students to a diverse range of religious traditions and beliefs. It aims to create an environment where students feel respected and valued regardless of their own religious background or beliefs. The intent is to foster an atmosphere of tolerance, understanding, and open-mindedness, enabling students to appreciate and engage with different religious perspectives.

Implementation

The implementation of religious education involves providing students with a comprehensive understanding of different religions. It includes introducing students to the key principles, rituals, practices, and figures associated with various faith traditions. Teachers employ a balanced approach, presenting information about multiple religions without bias or favouritism. They encourage critical thinking and analysis, allowing students to examine religious texts, teachings, and ethical dilemmas from an objective standpoint.

The implementation of religious education emphasises the ethical and moral development of students. Teachers facilitate discussions and activities that explore the ethical principles and values inherent in different religions. They help students understand how these principles can be applied to their own lives and encourage them to develop a strong moral compass. This implementation fosters an environment where students can make informed decisions and act ethically, irrespective of their personal religious beliefs or non-belief.

At Prestolee, Religious Education is taught in accordance with the Bolton Agreed Syllabus. Our curriculum is ambitious and enables all pupils to achieve well and attain high level outcomes by the end of each Key Stage. We enrich the curriculum by organising visits to places of worship in the immediate vicinity of the school. Faith leaders and other members of the community are also invited into school to contribute to learning in the classroom as an additional valued resource. 

Impact

The impact of religious education is reflected in students' increased cultural awareness and understanding. They gain knowledge about various religious traditions, enabling them to appreciate the customs, festivals, and practices associated with different faiths. This impact extends beyond the classroom, as students become more equipped to navigate a diverse and multicultural society with sensitivity and respect.

Religious education positively impacts students' ethical decision-making skills. By exploring the ethical principles of different religions, students develop a strong moral foundation and a sense of personal responsibility. They are empowered to make ethical choices based on their understanding of compassion, justice, and other British values. This impact prepares them to be thoughtful and ethical individuals in their future endeavours.