The scheme adopts an enquiry-based approach to teaching and learning. Christianity is taught in every year group, with Christmas and Easter given new treatment each year, developing the learning in a progressive way. Baha’i, Buddhism, Hinduism, Humanism, Islam, Judaism and Sikhism are also covered. Humanist perspectives are added when appropriate in some enquiries in addition to the Introduction to Humanism enquiry.
Each enquiry demands the equivalent of 6 lessons, but teaching time is sometimes blocked to enhance learning. Each enquiry has a learning objective which shows the learning over the enquiry and SMSC (Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural) development opportunities are mapped throughout as is each enquiry’s contribution to the British Values agenda.
British Values
At Stoke Lodge we believer Religious Education is a key player in engendering knowledge and understanding which can lead to tolerance and respect for others and their beliefs. It does not, however, teach children to passively accept, but rather encourages evaluation and critical thinking, equipping them to consider belief positions they encounter. Discovery RE contributes significantly to the British Values agenda.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness means cultivating a sense of awareness on purpose, in a non-judgemental way in the present moment. At Stoke Lodge, our teachers use mindfulness practices to build children’s self-awareness and skills of reflection, thus supporting their RE learning as well as their personal spiritual development. As we use Jigsaw, the mindful approach to PSHE, we also use Calm Me time in RE lessons too.
Managing the right to withdraw
In line with the Education Act, parents have the legal right to withdraw their child from all or part of Religious Education. Any parent wishing to exercise this right should make their request in writing to the Headteacher.
The school will respect these decisions and discuss with parents how the withdrawal will be managed to ensure that pupils remain appropriately supervised. All Religious Education teaching is delivered with respect for the backgrounds, beliefs, and values of all pupils and their families.
Curriculum Overview