We are theologians

Children will gain knowledge and understanding of a variety of religions. Southborough children learn from others and build their skills to reflect and analyse. Children will also develop a sense of identity and belonging and will be respectful and sensitive towards others creating a culture of acceptance, tolerance and understanding.

We teach the non-statutory Curriculum Framework for Religious Education. We follow the Bromley RE scheme of work 2024-2029. 

At Southborough Primary school, we aim to ensure that Religious Education will:

• Provoke challenging questions about the meaning and purpose of life, beliefs, the self, issues of right and wrong and what it means to be human. It develops pupils’ knowledge and understanding of religions, other principal religions and religious traditions that examine these questions, fostering personal reflection and spiritual development.
• Enable pupils to build their sense of identity and belonging, which helps them flourish within their community and as citizens in a diverse society.
• Teach pupils to develop respect for others, including people with different faiths and beliefs, and helps to challenge prejudice.
• Prompt pupils to consider their responsibilities to themselves and to others, and to explore how they might contribute to their community and to wider society. It encourages empathy, generosity and compassion.
• Develop a sense of awe and wonder and mystery.

Teaching and Learning

R.E has an important part to play as part of a broad, balanced and coherent curriculum to which all pupils are entitled. High quality learning experiences in RE are designed and provided by careful planning through the use of the Kapow.

 In order to make Religious Education a lively, active subject, we employ a variety of teaching methods including art, music, discussion, the development of thinking skills, drama, the use of artefacts, pictures, stories and the use of periods of stillness and reflection.  Where possible, we want our pupils to have opportunities to encounter local faith communities through visits to local places of worship or visits from members of local faith communities.

RE in EYFS

In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), RE is taught through knowledge and understanding of the world, where we look at various religious festivals throughout the year. We also teach through the ‘foundational skills’ which includes teaching the skills of enquiry and respecting our differences. These are the important skills, where we encourage children to ask questions and explore answers themselves, such as ‘What is important to me?’ or ‘Why do people do things differently?’.

Withdrawal from RE

At our school, Religious Education (RE) is an important part of the curriculum, encouraging pupils to explore a range of beliefs and worldviews. However, parents and carers have the legal right to withdraw their child from all or part of RE if they wish. If you are considering this option, please email your child’s class teacher via the office.