RE

At Ribbon Academy, we believe Religious Education helps children develop an understanding of the diverse world in which they live. Through the study of religion, worldviews and beliefs, pupils learn to appreciate different perspectives, consider important questions and develop respect for others.

Our RE curriculum supports children’s spiritual, moral, social and cultural development whilst encouraging curiosity, reflection and thoughtful discussion. We want every child to leave Ribbon Academy with a secure understanding of different beliefs and worldviews, alongside the confidence to express and reflect upon their own ideas with respect and consideration for others.

Our curriculum is carefully sequenced to develop both:

• Substantive knowledge – the beliefs, practices, teachings, traditions and worldviews that pupils need to know and understand.
• Disciplinary knowledge – how people explore beliefs, interpret meaning, ask philosophical questions and reflect on their own values and experiences.

Learning is designed to build progressively from Early Years through to Year 6, allowing children to revisit important concepts and deepen their understanding over time. 

The curriculum follows the Durham Locally Agreed Syllabus and provides opportunities for children to explore Christianity alongside a range of other religions and worldviews.

Reflection lies at the heart of Religious Education at Ribbon Academy.

Children are encouraged to:

• Ask thoughtful and challenging questions.
• Consider different perspectives.
• Explore issues of meaning and purpose.
• Reflect upon values and beliefs.
• Discuss moral and ethical issues respectfully.
• Develop informed opinions based on evidence and understanding. 

Through discussion and enquiry, pupils learn that complex questions often have multiple viewpoints and that respectful disagreement is an important part of life in modern Britain.

Our curriculum introduces pupils to a range of religions and worldviews, helping them understand how beliefs influence individuals, communities and societies.

Children study:

• Christianity
• Buddhism
• Hinduism
• Judaism
• Islam
• Humanism and non-religious worldviews

Through these studies, pupils gain an understanding of:

• Beliefs and teachings
• Sacred texts
• Worship and prayer
• Festivals and celebrations
• Community and belonging
• Values and ethical principles

We believe Religious Education is most meaningful when children encounter beliefs and communities first-hand.

Where possible, learning is enriched through:

• Visits to places of worship.
• Visitors from faith and community groups.
• Celebration of significant religious festivals.
• Opportunities to explore local and global communities.
• Real-life experiences that bring learning to life. 

These experiences help pupils understand that religion and belief remain important aspects of life for many people today.

In Nursery and Reception, children begin to explore:

• Special people and communities.
• Celebrations and traditions.
• Similarities and differences between people.
• Belonging and relationships.
• Caring for others.
• Understanding the world around them.

These experiences lay the foundations for future learning about religion, culture and diversity.

At Ribbon Academy, we believe Religious Education should be accessible to all pupils.

Lessons are designed to encourage participation, reflection and discussion from every child. Through storytelling, collaborative learning, visual resources and enquiry-based activities, all pupils can develop understanding, confidence and respect for different beliefs and perspectives.

We want every child to leave Ribbon Academy as a reflective learner who:

• Understands a range of religions and worldviews.
• Appreciates diversity within modern society.
• Shows respect and tolerance for differing beliefs.
• Thinks critically about important questions.
• Reflects upon their own values and experiences.
• Is prepared to contribute positively to life in modern Britain.