Religious Education
We aim to deliver a high-quality religious education which helps pupils to gain a sound knowledge and understanding of different religions by learning from faith and learning about religious traditions. Religious education develops children Spiritually, Morally, Socially and Culturally (SMSC) by challenging children intellectually, deepening their feelings and encouraging children to act responsibly. Through our values-based syllabus, we aspire to develop children’s sense of meaning and purpose while cultivating an environment of respect which will help to bring about social cohesion.
Why have we chosen the syllabus that we have?
We follow the Sandwell Agreed Syllabus. (https://www.sandwell.gov.uk/info/200295/schools_and_learning/4425/the_sandwell_agreed_syllabus_for_religious_education) This program provides a brilliant mix of academic learning about religions as well as an awareness of the values that religions hold. The effect this will have is that the children will have a better idea of a religion’s core beliefs and practices. The following religions are covered over the course of your child’s time at Northfield Manor: Christianity, Sikhism, Islam, Hinduism and Judaism.
Why are we teaching in the order that we are?
In each year group a new religion is introduced. This is to prevent overload and to make sure that the core beliefs of each religion are distinctive.
Units build on one another and depth is achieved by pupils being able to make connections within and across religions as well as understanding the impact of beliefs in action. Over the course of a year, each year group will have some units that focus particularly on an aspect of one religion and some units that draw on pupil’s prior learning by pulling together several different faiths in overarching topics like festivals, prayer or holy places.
- Awareness and appreciation of different traditions and ways of life
- Inclusive attitudes and respect for others
- Critical thinking skills and thoughtful discussion
- A sense of belonging and shared values within our school community