INTENT

At Leigh Primary School, we take pride in our commitment to Equality and Diversity. Thus Religious Education is taught throughout the school in such a way as to not only reflect the aims, values, and philosophy of our school but also to promote the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of our children.

We believe that all learners should develop mutual respect and understanding of the many different beliefs and cultures in Birmingham, the UK and the world. The aim of our Religious Education is to help children to acquire and develop knowledge and understanding of the six major religions: Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, Sikhism and Buddhism.

IMPLEMENTATION

At Leigh Primary School, we follow the Birmingham Agreed Religious Education Syllabus (2022). The key focus in RE is on “learning from religion” and "learning about religious traditions".

The syllabus encompasses a spiral curriculum of 24 dispositions and a progression of faith knowledge which aim to teach children:

•          the principal religions represented in Great Britain;

•          to appreciate the way that religious beliefs shape life and our behaviour;

•          develop the ability to make reasoned and informed judgements about religious and moral     issues;

•          and enhance their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.

As Islam is the predominant religion in the school's pupil population and in the community surrounding the school, Islam is the chosen faith for Progressed Study.

There are no presumptions made as to the religious backgrounds and beliefs and values of the children and the staff.  We value the religious background of all members of the school community and hope that this will encourage individuals to share their own experiences with others freely.  All religions and their communities are treated with respect and sensitivity and we value the links, which are, and can be made between home, school, and a faith community.  We acknowledge that each religion studied can contribute to the education of all our pupils.  We promote teaching in Religious Education that stresses open enquiry and first-hand experiences wherever possible for both children and staff.

IMPACT

The children at Leigh Primary enjoy learning about other religions and why people choose, or choose not to follow a religion. R.E. acts as a hub, between social aspects of learning. It not only supports children’s knowledge and understanding but it helps them to appreciate differences around them. Through R.E. children develop an understanding of other people’s cultures and ways of life, which they are then able to communicate to the wider community. R.E. offers our children the means by which to understand how other people choose to live and to understand why they choose to live in that way. As such, R.E. is invaluable in an ever changing and diverse world.