RE at St Andrew's
Religious Education (RE) is a high-profile academic subject at St Andrew's and is an important part of our curriculum. It reflects our Christian vision, Achieve, Believe, Care, Together. Our vision is rooted in the belief that every child is uniquely made in the image of God and deeply valued and loved.
Our RE curriculum enables pupils to develop a rich and well-informed understanding of Christianity as a diverse, global and living faith, alongside knowledge and understanding of a range of religious and non-religious worldviews.
Through engaging and creative learning opportunities, pupils are encouraged to ask thoughtful questions, explore beliefs and practices, engage with biblical texts and other sources of authority, consider different perspectives and reflect on questions of meaning and purpose. They develop their knowledge, understanding and religious literacy, while learning to engage respectfully and thoughtfully with the beliefs and worldviews of others.
As a Church of England school, Christianity has a central place within our RE curriculum and is the main religious worldview studied. Alongside this, pupils encounter a range of religious and non-religious worldviews, developing an understanding of the diversity, complexity and lived experience within and between different traditions.
RE provides pupils with opportunities to explore their own developing ideas, beliefs and worldviews and to engage in meaningful and respectful dialogue with others. It contributes to pupils' understanding of the world in which they live and helps them to develop the knowledge and skills needed to live well together in a diverse society.
RE is distinct from collective worship and is taught as an academic subject.
Our Learning
We follow the Blackburn Diocese Questful RE curriculum, which provides a structured and progressive programme of study from EYFS to Year 6. The curriculum is adapted to reflect our school's Christian foundation and the context of our pupils.
Pupils study Christianity throughout their time at St Andrew's, alongside a range of other religious and non-religious worldviews. They encounter different ways of knowing, including theological, philosophical and human and social science approaches, and develop skills in enquiry, analysis, interpretation, evaluation and reflection.
RE is taught for at least one hour each week. Learning is enriched through opportunities to encounter religion and belief beyond the classroom, including visits to places of worship, visitors to school, World Faith Days and opportunities to engage with members of different faith communities.
Our RE curriculum is designed to enable all pupils, including pupils with SEND, to make progress in their knowledge and understanding. Assessment is used to identify what pupils know and understand and to support their progression through the curriculum.
Right to Withdraw from Religious Education
Parents and carers have a legal right to request that their child is withdrawn wholly or partly from Religious Education. This right is freely exercisable and parents are not required to give a reason.
We encourage parents and carers who are considering withdrawal to speak with the Headteacher or RE Leader so that they can understand the content, aims and approach of our RE curriculum and make an informed decision. Where a child is withdrawn, the school will make appropriate arrangements in accordance with its statutory duties. Parents should make clear whether their request relates to all RE or to particular aspects or activities within the subject.