'RE is like an Iceberg.  As you unpack an idea, you come to understand deeper meaning'.

Intent

At Aston Clinton, we believe that it is important for all our pupils to learn from and about religion, so that they can understand the world around them. The aim of Religious Education in our school is to help children to acquire and develop knowledge and understanding of Christianity and the other principal religions represented in Great Britain.  Religious Education is taught throughout the school in such a way as to reflect the overall vision and values of the school. It plays an important role, along with all other curriculum areas, particularly PSHCE, in promoting social awareness and understanding in our children. We encourage our pupils to ask questions about the world and to reflect on their own beliefs, values and experiences. We include and promote British values, ensuring that children are aware of their rights and responsibilities as UK citizens. 

Implementation

At Aston Clinton, we use a scheme of learning for our RE lessons called ‘Discovery RE’. Discovery RE takes a thoughtful and creative approach to RE and our belief is that whilst we use this enquiry-based model, children’s critical thinking skills can be developed, their motivation to learn increased and their knowledge and understanding of the different religions will be enhanced. This approach takes very seriously the philosophy that children are free to make their own choices and decisions concerning religion and belief. RE does not try to persuade but rather to inform and develop the skills with which evaluation can take place.

Christianity will be taught in every year group, with Christmas and Easter given new treatment each year, developing the learning in a progressive way. Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Sikhism are also covered throughout the year groups. Each year group will have an overview map of the six units they will need to teach and cover for each half term. These units will focus on a different religion so that all religions will be covered.

Each unit taught in RE is split into four steps.  

Step 1: Engagement – This explores the underpinning key question for the unit. (Usually one lesson.)

Step 2: Investigation – Children will gain subject knowledge carefully selected to assist their thinking about the key question. (Usually three lessons.)

Step 3: Evaluation - This lesson draws together the children’s learning and their conclusions about the key question on that enquiry. (Usually one lesson.)

Step 4: Expression – Children are taken back to step 1, their own experience, to reflect on how this enquiry might have influenced their own starting points and beliefs. (Usually one lesson.)

By following these four steps, it promotes religious literacy by encouraging the children to gain knowledge and understanding of a range of religions worldwide. Using balanced discussions about religions and beliefs, the children develop consideration in regards to belonging, believing and behaving.

Other ways in which we promote a broad religious education is by reading stories, using real life examples that are in the news and bringing children’s attention to celebrations and traditions from around the world. This will ensure that our children understand the British values alongside respecting others beliefs.

Impact

Children at Aston Clinton will leave with knowledge and appreciation of religions from around the world. They will feel confident to ask questions and listen to what others have to say, supporting them in becoming respectful and positive members of society who show understanding and tolerance towards others regardless of their religious beliefs. 

For more details about your child's learning, please use the following link to the year group learning pages.