Religious Education

Intent

At Cledford, we believe it’s vital for all pupils to learn about different religions and worldviews to understand and respect the diverse world around them. Our Religious Education (RE) curriculum supports children’s spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. It promotes respect, open-mindedness and a sense of identity and belonging. Through an enquiry-based approach, pupils explore how beliefs and practices influence individuals and communities locally, nationally and globally.

Respect and tolerance are central to our ethos and school rules. We encourage children to ask thoughtful questions, reflect on their experiences and understand how beliefs shape lives and behaviours.

Implementation

We follow the Cheshire East Agreed Syllabus, adapted to suit our school community. Christianity is our core focus, alongside Judaism, Islam, Hinduism and non-religious worldviews such as Humanism. Lessons build progressively on prior learning and treat all faiths with equal respect.

Our curriculum balances theology, philosophy and human and social sciences, organised around six key themes: Authority; God, the World and Self; Personal Belief; Marking Life’s Journey; Belonging; and Worldviews in the Wider World. We use artefacts, storytelling, drama, sacred texts and visits to bring learning to life. Daily collective worship also fosters respect, reflection and understanding.

Impact

At Cledford, RE helps pupils grow spiritually, academically, emotionally and morally. They gain knowledge of different faiths and non-religious beliefs, develop religious vocabulary and learn to reflect sensitively on big questions.

Our pupils leave with a stronger understanding of themselves and others, equipped to thrive in a multicultural world. Progress is monitored through pupil discussions, work scrutiny, lesson observations and assessment against clear curriculum goals.

Our RE curriculum is thoughtfully planned, sequenced and connected to other subjects, particularly supporting the development of strong English skills.