At Kidsgrove Primary School, we believe that Religious Education plays an essential role in developing children’s understanding of themselves, others and the world around them. RE makes a valuable contribution to pupils’ personal development by fostering curiosity, empathy and respect for different beliefs, traditions and viewpoints.
Through learning the distinctive language of religion and engaging in thoughtful discussion, children develop important skills in enquiry, reflection and response. RE encourages pupils to think deeply about their own values and beliefs, and to communicate their ideas confidently. It promotes mutual respect, tolerance and understanding—qualities that are central to our school ethos.
We recognise and celebrate the diversity within our school community. Children come from a variety of religious and non-religious backgrounds, and we work hard to ensure that every pupil feels respected, included and represented within our RE curriculum.
Our RE Curriculum
Our Religious Education curriculum encourages children to explore big questions about meaning, purpose, identity, morality and what it means to be human. From EYFS to Year 6, pupils build knowledge of a range of world religions and worldviews, helping them develop informed opinions and an appreciation for the beliefs and practices of others.
EYFS and Key Stage 1
In EYFS and KS1, we follow the Jigsaw Religious Education scheme of learning. This introduces children to:
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Christianity
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Islam
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Judaism
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Hinduism
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Humanism
Through stories, celebrations, artefacts and discussions, younger pupils begin to understand similarities and differences between faiths and explore questions about belonging, kindness and the world around them.
Key Stage 2
In Key Stage 2, we teach RE through the Opening Worlds curriculum, which provides:
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Thorough, carefully sequenced knowledge-building
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Global and cultural breadth, representing a wide range of communities and traditions
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Strong vocabulary development, with systematic revisiting of key terms
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Disciplinary rigour, teaching children how to interpret sources, weigh arguments and understand how religious traditions seek truth
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Rich storytelling, with well-crafted narratives that bring beliefs and practices to life
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Highly inclusive teaching, with oral, interactive and engaging learning approaches
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Efficient use of lesson time, balancing pace, practice and meaningful reflection
This approach helps pupils develop a deep, connected understanding of major religions, their history, and their influence on people and societies today.
Right to Withdraw
Parents and carers have the legal right to withdraw their child from all or part of Religious Education. If you wish to discuss this option, please email the school office outlining which aspects of the RE curriculum you would like your child withdrawn from. A member of the Senior Leadership Team will then contact you to discuss the request and agree appropriate arrangements.