“And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.” - Luke 6:31
Religious Education has never been as important as it is today! At Orchid Vale, it is our intent as we study RE in school to learn about the culture, practises, values and beliefs of others. We learn how to listen to one another, ask questions and how to share our thoughts and ideas. RE helps us to respect the beliefs of others when they are different to our own.
Our Curriculum
We follow the Swindon Agreed Syllabus and use the RE Today Scheme of Work. Through the implementation of weekly lessons, with the support of a specialist RE teacher, children will explore the big questions of life. They will consider what people believe and the difference this makes to their lives after which the children can start to make sense of religion and reflect on their own beliefs and ways of living.
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We give children an opportunity to develop a knowledge and understanding of the religious practices and beliefs of Christianity, Judaism, Islam and Hinduism. Through this curriculum we provide a positive context within which the diversity of cultures, beliefs and values can be explored. The children are encouraged to reflect on their own developing beliefs and values and to be respectful of the beliefs and values of others through understanding their traditions and practices. Opportunities are given for children to question and suggest answers relating to their own religious practices and those of others.
Art, Drama and Music are used to involve children in exploring, their understanding of different religious beliefs and traditions. Pictures, artefacts and stories are also used to give children a visual point of reference. In contrast periods of stillness and reflection are also part of lessons, when appropriate.
A Whole School Approach
Throughout the year the children have visitors from the local community who share their own personal experiences of how their faith is part of their lives.
What can RE lead to?
Supporting your child and their love of RE can lead to many career options, including:
- Advice worker.
- Archivist.
- Charity fundraiser.
- Counsellor.
- Civil Service administrator.
- Community development worker.
- International aid/development worker.
- Mediator.
At Orchid Vale we encourage an inclusive community approach to Religious Education. However parents are legally able to withdraw children from Collective Worship or Religious Education. Parents wishing to do so should contact the Head Teacher to discuss any concerns they may have with regards to the school’s Religious Education policy.
