RE

Religious Education at Lightwater Village School

Legal and Statutory Context

In accordance with the Education Reform Act (1988), every maintained school in England must provide a basic curriculum, which includes Religious Education (RE) for all registered pupils. This includes students in post-16 provision in schools, except those withdrawn by parents (or by themselves if over 18), in line with Schedule 19 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998. Teachers also retain the right to withdraw from teaching RE, as safeguarded by the 1944 Education Act.

All maintained schools must deliver RE in accordance with their locally Agreed Syllabus. Lightwater Village School follows the Surrey Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education (2017–2022), which reflects that while the principal religious tradition in Great Britain is Christian, the syllabus also takes into account the teachings and practices of the other principal religions represented in Great Britain.

Re image buddhist monks

Curriculum Intent

At Lightwater Village School, we believe Religious Education plays a vital role in helping children develop understanding, respect, and empathy for others. RE enables pupils to explore big questions about life, beliefs, values, and identity, encouraging them to reflect on their own ideas and those of others.

We aim to:

Provide opportunities for children to learn about religious and non-religious worldviews.
Encourage children to appreciate the beliefs and values that shape people’s lives.
Create an inclusive and respectful environment where children can explore diversity and difference.
Support children’s spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, contributing to community cohesion and preparing them for life in a diverse and ever-changing world.

“It helps us to understand how to respect people, help them be who they are or want to be. It explains how it all works.” – Year 6 pupil

“RE is when we learn about the Bible and other celebrations. RE is celebrating baby Jesus being born. We learn about God.” – Year 1 child

“I love learning about baby Jesus and Christmas. I liked the Bible stories.” – Year 2 child

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Curriculum Implementation

RE is taught in line with the Surrey Agreed Syllabus, reviewed every five years. We plan and assess using the most recent syllabus, ensuring our provision reflects:

Legal requirements
Local and national expectations
The diverse needs, abilities and backgrounds of our pupils
The views of the local community and parents
High standards of educational challenge

At Lightwater, our RE curriculum is progressive and inclusive, allowing all pupils to explore a range of religious and non-religious beliefs. Lessons include storytelling, discussion, art, music, drama, visits and visitors, providing pupils with a rich and engaging learning experience.

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Curriculum Impact

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

In the EYFS, children begin to explore the world around them, including cultural and religious practices through storytelling, celebrations, and role play. Assessment is linked to the EYFS Profile, particularly the Understanding the World area of learning.

“It’s learning about Jesus and Diwali.” – Year R child

Key Stage 1

Children explore Christianity, Judaism and Islam, with references to non-religious worldviews. They learn through stories, celebrations, symbols and first-hand experiences.

By the end of KS1, most pupils will be able to:

Identify similarities in features of religion and beliefs
Retell religious, spiritual and moral stories
Identify meanings behind religious symbols and practices
Respond sensitively and imaginatively to big questions about life
Ask questions and give reasons for why things are important to themselves and others

Key Stage 2

KS2 builds on earlier learning by introducing Hinduism, Sikhism and Buddhism, and encouraging pupils to consider global and philosophical issues. Pupils explore religion through texts, ethics, values, and real-life contexts, including Humanism.

By the end of Year 4, most pupils can:

Connect religious stories, symbols, and practices
Compare similarities and differences between religions
Reflect on the impact of beliefs on individuals and communities
Ask deep questions and explain their thinking

By the end of Year 6, most pupils can:

Investigate and interpret key ideas across religions and worldviews
Explore ethical issues and express informed opinions
Reflect on their own values and those of others
Understand the influence of religion locally and globally

“We learn more about religion… we interpreted what happened at Easter as the Roman warrior, Jesus, Mary and Sarah.” – Year 4 pupil

“Learning about different religions means we can understand other people's beliefs.” – Year 5 pupil

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Summary

At Lightwater Village School, RE is a vital and valued part of the curriculum. It helps pupils become thoughtful, respectful and well-rounded individuals, equipped to live in a diverse society with curiosity and compassion. Our RE curriculum encourages open-mindedness, promotes inclusivity, and prepares children for life in a global community.

RE Progression Document EYFS & KS1

RE Progression Document Years 3 - 6

RE EYFS Coverage

RE KS1 Coverage

RE Coverage Lower KS2

RE Coverage Upper KS2

Knowledge Organiser

Year 2 Knowledge Organiser - What are symbols and why do people use them?Year 2 Knowledge Organiser - What are your big questions?Year 2 Knowledge Organiser - Is the World a fair place?Year 2 Knowledge Organiser - Is prayer important to everyone?Year 2 Knowledge Organiser - Why is Easter important to Christians Year 2 Knowledge Organiser - What does the Christmas story tell Christians about Jesus Year2 Knowledge - Organiser What it is important for Muslim families Year 2 Knowledge - Organiser Who is Allah and how do muslims worship him Year 2 Knowledge - Organiser Why did Jesus tell parables Year 2 Knowledge - Organiser Why do Christians call Jesus Saviour