Religious Education (RE) at St Nicholas Primary School helps children to understand the diverse beliefs, values and world views that shape people’s lives.

We follow the East Riding of Yorkshire Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education. RE is also explored through:

• whole-school assemblies

• Faith Week

• Harvest Festival

• Christmas and Easter celebrations

Our approach to RE aims to give children:

• knowledge of a range of religions and world views

• strong critical thinking skills

• an open-minded and respectful attitude

• opportunities to reflect and develop personal understanding

Children are encouraged to explore what different beliefs mean to those who hold them, while developing empathy, reflection, and a sense of awe and wonder.

Whilst our approach to RE is open, broad, and explores a range of religious and non religious worldviews, parents/carers have the legal right to be able to withdraw their child from RE lessons, or any part of the RE curriculum. This must be requested in writing to our Head of School.

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Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

From the very beginning of school, children are introduced to different religions and beliefs.

In EYFS, children explore five main religions:

• Christianity

• Judaism

• Hinduism

• Islam

• Sikhism

Learning focuses on themes such as:

• Special Times

• Special Places

• Special People

• Special Books

• Special Things

Children regularly discuss religious celebrations and experiences, developing curiosity and respect for others.

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Key Stage 1

In Years 1 and 2, children build on their EYFS learning by focusing on:

• Christianity

• Islam

• Humanism (as a non-religious world view)

Children explore:

• religious celebrations

• beliefs and practices

• similarities and differences between faiths

Dedicated units include Winter Celebrations and Spring Celebrations, helping children to deepen understanding while developing their own personal knowledge.

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Key Stage 2

In Years 3–6, children further expand their understanding of religion and world views.

All year groups study:

• Christianity

• Islam

• Hinduism

• Humanism (non-religious world view)

Children:

• explore viewpoints and religious celebrations

• revisit Winter and Spring Celebrations

• develop skills in description, analysis, explanation and appreciation

Pupils are encouraged to form and express their own thoughts and opinions, while respecting the beliefs of others and developing personal insight.

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How Can I Support My Child with Religious Education?

At home, you can support RE learning by:

• talking about different religions and world views

• exploring religious festivals as they occur throughout the year

• discussing celebrations such as Diwali, Christmas, Easter and Harvest

Books, TV programmes, museums and places of worship can also help children to deepen their understanding and curiosity.

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Useful Websites

All of the following resources are suitable for UK primary school children.

BBC Bitesize – Religious Education
Videos, games and activities to support RE learning across key stages.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/z7hs34j

RE:quest
Explores the ‘big questions’ linked to Christianity in a child-friendly way.
https://request.org.uk/

Understanding Christianity
Resources supporting understanding of Christian beliefs and concepts.
https://understandingchristianity.org.uk/

RE Online
Information and activities covering world religions and world views.
https://www.reonline.org.uk/