Religious Education

“Culture is the widening of the mind and of the spirit.”

(Jawaharlal Nehru)

At Chapelford Village Primary School, we aim to develop pupils’ understanding of different faiths and worldviews, encouraging respect, tolerance and reflection. RE is an important part of our broad and balanced curriculum, helping pupils to understand themselves and others within a diverse society.

Parents and carers have the legal right to request that their child be wholly or partly withdrawn from RE lessons in line with the school’s basic curriculum requirements. Parents do not need to provide a reason for this request. However, we encourage any parent considering withdrawal to contact the school to discuss the educational aims and content of the RE syllabus before making a final decision.

If a pupil is withdrawn from RE, the school will ensure they are appropriately supervised during this time, although we are not required to provide alternative teaching or incur additional costs. Pupils will remain on the school premises during RE sessions. Parents are not permitted to supervise their child during these lessons.

Please note that the right of withdrawal applies only to Religious Education. It does not apply to lessons in other curriculum areas (such as history or English) where religious themes or concepts may be explored.

If you wish to discuss withdrawing your child from RE lessons or any element of Religious Education, please contact the school office at office@chapelfordvillageprimary.co.uk, marking your email for the attention of the Headteacher. We are happy to discuss your request and ensure you have all the necessary information before making a decision.

Intent

At Chapelford Village Primary School, we believe that learning about religion and from religion plays a vital role in developing thoughtful, compassionate, and well-rounded individuals. Through our Religious Education (RE) curriculum, pupils gain a deep understanding of the diverse world around them and the beliefs, values, and traditions that shape it. Our RE curriculum fosters curiosity, respect, and open-mindedness, encouraging children to explore profound questions about life, belief, and meaning. Pupils are supported to reflect on their own experiences and values while learning to appreciate the perspectives of others. In doing so, they develop the empathy, tolerance and understanding that prepare them for life in a culturally rich and diverse modern society.

Implementation

At Chapelford, Religious Education is taught through an engaging and well-structured curriculum that explores key world faiths, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Children are introduced to the beliefs, practices and traditions that underpin these religions, as well as opportunities to consider non-religious worldviews. Our curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure that pupils build on prior knowledge as they progress through school, deepening their understanding and making meaningful connections between different concepts and faiths. Regular opportunities to revisit key themes help to embed learning and strengthen long-term knowledge retention. The teaching and learning of RE are guided by our dedicated RE Leader, who ensures highquality provision through ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and professional development. Strong links are made with PSHE, supporting the wider personal, social and moral growth of our pupils and promoting respect and tolerance across all areas of school life. To bring learning to life, we enrich the curriculum through meaningful experiences such as visits to places of worship and visits from faith representatives. We have a close partnership with our St James church, who regularly support our learning through assemblies and school visits, including Open the Book storytelling sessions. These real-life encounters enable children to gain authentic insights into faith and community in action.

Impact

By the time children leave Chapelford Village Primary School, they will have developed a rich understanding of major world religions and the values that underpin them. They will be able to articulate their own beliefs with confidence, while showing genuine respect for the views of others. Our pupils leave us with the knowledge, empathy, and cultural awareness needed to thrive in an increasingly diverse world. They are equipped not only with an understanding of faith and belief, but with the curiosity, compassion and moral grounding that will guide them throughout their lives

Religious Education Documents

Click on the National Curriculum image for the programme of study for Religious Education