Religious Education

The context of RE

Religious Education is taught in accordance with the Lancashire Agreed Syllabus ‘Searching for Meaning’. This is an ambitious curriculum and outlines the curriculum intent and methods of implementation that will enable all pupils to achieve well and attain high level outcomes by the end of each key stage. The curriculum is taught from Reception to Y6 and reflects the fact that religious traditions in Great Britain are in the main Christian, while taking account of the teaching and practices of the other principal religious traditions represented in Great Britain.

The syllabus aims to support pupil’s personal search for meaning as they explore what it means to be human. It follows the Lancashire ‘Field of Enquiry’ medium term planning model, but also specifies knowledge and skills which build towards clear goals at the end of each key stage. This ensures that the curriculum is progressive, clearly sequenced and suitably ambitious. It is rooted in disciplinary knowledge based in theology, social sciences and philosophy.

We recognise the variety of religious and non-religious backgrounds from which our pupils come. The taught syllabus is not designed to convert pupils, or to promote a particular religion or religious belief. As a school we maintain that teaching about religions and worldviews should be sufficiently fair, balanced and open. We aim to promote mutual respect and understanding, whilst not undermining or ignoring the role of families and religious or belief organisations in transmitting values to successive generations.

Purpose and Aims of Religious Education

We believe that studying religious and non-religious worldviews is essential if pupils are to be well prepared for life in our increasingly diverse society. Pupils need to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to make sense of the complex world in which they live so that they can ‘respect religious and cultural differences and contribute to a cohesive and compassionate society’ (RE Review 2013).

Religious Education provokes challenging questions about the ultimate meaning and purpose of life, beliefs about God, the self and the nature of reality, issues of right and wrong, and what it means to be human. Pupils learn to weigh up the value of wisdom from different sources, to develop and express insights in response, and to agree or disagree respectfully.

Pupils are encouraged to articulate clearly and coherently their personal beliefs, ideas, values and experiences so that they can hold balanced and well informed conversations about religions and worldviews whilst respecting the views of others.

Our curriculum for Religious Education aims to ensure that all pupils:

Know about and understand a range of religions and worldviews, so that they can:

describe, explain and analyse beliefs and practices, recognising the diversity which exists within and between communities and amongst individuals;
identify, investigate and respond to questions posed, and responses offered by some of the sources of wisdom found in religions and worldviews; and
appreciate and evaluate the nature, significance and impact of different ways of life and ways of expressing meaning.

Express ideas and insights about the nature, significance and impact of religions and worldviews, so that they can:

explain reasonably their ideas about how beliefs, practices and forms of expression influence individuals and communities;
express with increasing discernment their personal reflections and critical responses to questions and teachings about identity, diversity, meaning and value, including ethical issues; and
appreciate and appraise varied dimensions of religion or a worldview.

Gain and deploy the skills needed to engage seriously with religions and worldviews, so that they can:

find out about and investigate key concepts and questions of belonging, meaning, purpose and truth, responding creatively;
enquire into what enables different individuals and communities to live together respectfully for the wellbeing of all; and
articulate beliefs, values and commitments clearly in order to explain why they may be important in their own and other people’s lives.

Equal Opportunities

Religious Education is taught in accordance with our school’s Equality Opportunity Policy. Stereotypes are avoided. Attempts are made to ensure that examples of religious figures reflect all aspects of diversity within society.

Pupils will develop a sense of citizenship through many aspects of the explicit RE curriculum. Links will be made with people and communities within the locality.

The RE curriculum makes a significant contribution to pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development and awareness of Prevent and British values.

Links with other subjects

Although Religious Education is taught as a separate subject discipline, opportunities arise in lessons for children to apply skills from other subject areas. For example in English, art, drama, computing, technology. This ensures that the curriculum is taught in a creative and engaging manner as well as being knowledge rich and ambitious.

Withdrawal

We note the Human Right of parents to withdraw their children from Religious Education and of teachers to withdraw from teaching the subject. We aim to provide an open curriculum which can be taught to all pupils, by all staff.

Teachers are asked to refer to the head teacher any questions from parents about withdrawals. Requests for full or partial withdrawal from RE should be made in writing to the head teacher and a record kept of them.

Our full guidance on withdrawal can be found on the school website.

Visitors and visits to places of worship

We enrich the curriculum by organising visits to places of worship in the immediate vicinity of the school. Faith leaders and other members of the community are also invited when appropriate to contribute to learning in the classroom as an additional valued resource.

Guidance on visits and visitors can be found in the school’s visitor policy.

The RE subject leader supports class teachers to organise these educational visits.

Named RE subject leader: Miss Z. Stott
Headteacher: Mrs A. Ewens

Pillars of Progression

The following grids identify how knowledge and skills are built on across KS1 and KS2. Although the generic skills remain the same within each grid, each one is adapted to include subject content specific matched to each religion. Religious Education (Lancashire Agreed Syllabus)

Religious Education (Lancashire Agreed Syllabus) Christianity
Y6: Is life like a journey?	RE Skills		Analyse beliefs, teachings and values and how they are linked Explain how the beliefs and values of a religious tradition might guide a believer through the journey of life Explain the impact of beliefs, values and practices – including differences between and within religious traditions	Use developing religious vocabulary to describe and show understanding of religious traditions, including practices, rituals and experiences Explain differing ideas about religious expression	Consider what makes us human – in terms of our beliefs and values, relationships with others and sense of identity and belonging Discuss how people change during the journey of life	Raise, discuss and debate questions about identity, belonging, meaning, purpose, truth, values and commitments Develop own views and ideas in response to learning Demonstrate increasing self- awareness in their own personal development
	Content (Christianity)	Church	Explain how beliefs about the death and resurrection of Jesus might affect the life of a Christian Explain (simply) Christian beliefs about salvation Explain how Christian beliefs about life after death might affect a believer’s senseof purpose and behaviour throughout the journey of life	Explore Christian ideas about forgiveness of sin and the different ways that people might seek to be forgiven (using terms such as confession, repentance, atonement, reconciliation) Analyse Christian teachings about the importance of forgiveness and examples of people who have put these teachings into practice	Discuss differing ideas and opinions about the purpose of human life – and how these beliefs might influence relationships with others Discuss the importance of saying sorry and forgiveness in maintaining relationships with others	Raise questions about the meaning and purpose of life and explain their own ideas and opinions (including influences) Reflect on the benefits and difficulties of forgiveness
		Jesus	Retell the events leading up to and including the death of Jesus Explain how beliefs about the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus might guide and comfort a Christian during difficult times in their own life	Explain how and why Christian individuals and communities might celebrate the events of Holy Week Use religious vocabulary to describe and explain the Eucharist Explain different Christian beliefs about the Eucharist and its importance	Consider how people might mature and become stronger through overcoming difficulties Consider the value of being part of a community on the ‘journey of life’	Raise questions and discuss the extent to which they agree that ‘suffering makes you stronger’ Discuss own experiences and attitudes towards the importance of having companionship on the journey of life
		God	Explain how rituals (sacraments/ rites of passage) might reflect Christian beliefs about their relationship with God Explain how these rituals might differ between different denominations (e.g. infant baptism and believer’s baptism)	Analyse the importants of Christian rites of passage as an expression of faith and commitment Use religious vocabulary to explain the symbolism of words and actions used within rituals and ceremonies	Discuss how people change during the course of their lifetime – and the key events that humans might mark on the journey of life Consider the value of celebrating landmarks in life – for individuals and communities	Ask and respond thoughtfully to questions about how they have changed during their life so far – and how they might continue to change Discuss where they might find wisdom and guidance to help prepare them for the changes and responsibilities of different stages of life
			Knowing about and understanding religions and worldviews		Expressing and communicating ideas related to religions and worldviews
Lancashire Field of enquiry			Beliefs and values	Living Religious Traditions	Shared Human Experience	Search for Personal Meaning

Religious Education (Lancashire Agreed Syllabus) Christianity
Y5: Where can we find guidance about how to live our lives?	RE Skills		Make links between beliefs and sacred texts, including how and why religious sources are used to teach and guide believers Explain the impact of beliefs and values – including reasons for diversity	Explain differing forms of expression and why these might be used Describe diversity of religious practices and lifestyle within the religious tradition Interpret the deeper meaning of symbolism – contained in stories, images and actions	Explain (with appropriate examples) where people might seek wisdom and guidance Consider the role of rules and guidance in uniting communities	Discuss and debate the sources of guidance available to them Consider the value of differing sources of guidance
	Content (Christianity)	Church	Describe what Christians mean when they talk about one God in Trinity Identify the beliefs contained within the Apostle’s Creed Explain why the Christian community (The Church) might want/need an agreed statement of belief	Describe and explain the meaning of a range of symbols that might be used for the Trinity Explain how symbols might unite the worldwide Christian Church Describe the role of places like Taizé where Christians from different backgrounds might come together to worship	Consider what we mean by sources of authority. Give examples of sources of authority that might guide individuals and communities – and the value of these as guidance for life Discuss different responses to sources of authority	Raise meaningful questions about things that puzzle them Differentiate between questions that can be answered factually and those that have a range of answers, including personal beliefs and values
		Jesus	Describe Christian beliefs about miracles as ‘signs’ of the divinity of Jesus Retell a selection of miracle stories – and explain what these might reveal to Christians about the nature of Jesus	Describe why some Christians might go on pilgrimage to places associated with miraculous events Explain the impact that belief in miracles and the power of prayer might have on a Christian	Explain the difference between fact, opinion and belief Consider differing interpretations of the word miracle – i.e. an amazing event, a very lucky experience, a strange coincidence, an act of God	Discuss their own beliefs – is there anything that they accept as truth which others may not agree with? Reflect on how they make decisions about what is/is not true
		God	Describe Christian beliefs about sin and forgiveness Describe and explain the teaching from Genesis 3 – of how Adam and Eve disobeyed God Suggest different ways that this story might be understood by Christians	Describe and explain how and why Christians might use the Lord’s Prayer Analyse and interpret the Lord’s Prayer – and what guidance it provides for Christians Suggest things that might lead Christians into temptation in the modern world – and how and why they might try to resist these temptations	Consider the different ways that myth and stories are and used Explain how a ‘truth’ might be contained within a story	Consider how they decide what is ‘true’ – and how there might be different types of truth (e.g. empirical truth, historical truth, spiritual truth) Discuss and debate things that they consider to be true that others might disagree with
			Knowing about and understanding religions and worldviews		Expressing and communicating ideas related to religions and worldviews
Lancashire Field of enquiry			Beliefs and values	Living Religious Traditions	Shared Human Experience	Search for Personal Meaning

Religious Education (Lancashire Agreed Syllabus) Christianity
Y4: How should we live our lives?	RE Skills		Describe what a believer might learn from a religious teaching/ story Make links between ideas about morality and sources of authority	Describe the impact religion has on believers’ lives Explain the deeper meaning and symbolism for specific religious practices	Consider the range of beliefs, values and lifestyles that exist in society Discuss how people make decisions about how to live their lives	Reflect on their own personal sources of wisdom and authority
	Content (Christianity)	Church	Retell some of the main parables of Jesus Explain how and why these might be an important source of guidance for Christians Suggest ways that Christians might put these teachings into action in the 21st century	Describe and explain (with examples) Christian attitudes about how to treat others Explain the importance of love for all (agape) as part of Christian life, and the ways that this might be expressed	Explain (with examples) how and why people might use stories to pass on wisdom and guidance Discuss how and why fables might be an important aspect of human history and culture	Discuss examples of wisdom and guidance that they have learnt from stories Consider what messages/words of wisdom they would want to pass on to future generations – and how they would do this
		Jesus	Retell the story of Jesus in the wilderness Identify Christian beliefs about Jesus reflected in this story Suggest why sacrifice might be an important Christian value (linked to beliefs and teachings about Jesus)	Describe what a Christian might do during Lent and why Explain what is meant by sacrificial love – agape – and give examples of how Christians might do this Discuss Christians who have been examples of sacrificial love (e.g. Martin Luther King, Oscar Romero) and how they were motivated by their faith	Consider differing attitudes and responses to the concept of sacrifice (both positive and negative) Discuss why many people are willing to make sacrifices for the people they love Discuss why some people may be willing to make a sacrifice for someone they don’t even know	Give examples of acts of sacrifice that have been done by or for them Discuss who or what they would be prepared to make sacrifices for Consider the value of sacrifice – as an expression of love and commitment
		God	Explore different Christian beliefs about the Bible as the word of God Explain why the Bible can be described as a library and give examples of the different types of writings found in the Bible Describe why some Christians might view the Bible as an important source of authority and moral guidance	Explain why Christians might have different views about how to interpret and apply the Bible Explain why Christians might also look to other sources of authority when making decisions about how to live (e.g. church leaders, prayer, conscience)	Discuss why people might have different views about what is right and wrong – and where these views might come from Describe the different sources of authority that humans might look to when making decisions about how to live their lives	Reflect on their own understanding of morality and where it comes from Raise questions and discuss responses to different ideas about how to live well
			Knowing about and understanding religions and worldviews		Expressing and communicating ideas related to religions and worldviews
Lancashire Field of enquiry			Beliefs and values	Living Religious Traditions	Shared Human Experience	Search for Personal Meaning

Religious Education (Lancashire Agreed Syllabus) Christianity
Y3: Who should we follow?	RE Skills		Show awareness of similarities in religions Identify beliefs and values contained within a story/ teaching Identify the impact religion has on a believer	Identify how religion is expressed in different ways Use religious terms to describe how people might express their beliefs	Describe how some people, events and sources of wisdom have influenced and inspired others	In relation to matters of right and wrong, recognise their own and others’ values Discuss own questions and responses related to the question ‘who should we follow – and why?’
	Content (Christianity)	Church	Know what Christians mean by the Holy Spirit Suggest how belief in the Holy Spirit as God’s presence in the world might have an impact on individuals and communities Identify Christian values exemplified in the gifts of the Spirit	Identify how beliefs about the Holy Spirit might influence forms of worship in a range of Christian denominations Describe how and why Pentecost is celebrated Describe why some Christians might take part in a procession of witness	Describe aspects of being human that we should be proud of Discuss what it means to be a successful human – and the different measures of success that might be applied	Discuss their own sense of value and what is good/unique about being them Reflect on the people that they value in their lives – and how they show their appreciation
		Jesus	Know what is meant by discipleship Know about the people who became disciples of Jesus – and suggest why these people decided to follow Jesus Identify beliefs and values within religious teachings (e.g. ‘Follow me and I will make you fishers of men’ – Matt 4:19)	Describe how and why Christians might try to follow the example of Jesus through mission and charity work Describe the work of one Christian organisation that aims to help people, and how this work is an expression of their Christian beliefs	Talk about what it means to have charisma Describe what makes a good leader and why people might want to follow him/her Discuss what motivates people to want to make a difference	Reflect on their own leadership abilities Discuss their own desires to make a difference in the world/ in their communities
		God	Know that the Abrahamic faiths believe in prophets (and that many of these are shared across the three religions) Identify Christian beliefs and values contained within stories of the prophets (e.g. Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jonah) Suggest why these prophets chose to listen to and follow God	Identify Christians who might be described as people who listened to and followed God Describe how and why some Christians might devote their lives to serving God Talk about what is meant by a sense of vocation	Identify inspirational people/ role models for the world today Describe the qualities that inspirational people might have	Discuss who makes a good role model and why Raise and discuss questions about following others – including both positive and negative responses
			Knowing about and understanding religions and worldviews		Expressing and communicating ideas related to religions and worldviews
Lancashire Field of enquiry			Beliefs and values	Living Religious Traditions	Shared Human Experience	Search for Personal Meaning

Religious Education (Lancashire Agreed Syllabus) Christianity
Y2: How do we respond to the things that really matter?	RE Skills		Retell and suggest meanings for religious stories and/or beliefs Use some religious words and phrases when talking about beliefs and values	Identify and describe how religion is expressed in different ways Suggest the symbolic meaning of imagery and actions	Identify things that influence a person’s sense of identity and belonging	Ask relevant questions Talk about their own identity and values
	Content (Christianity)	Church	Suggest beliefs and values that might unite the Christian community Talk about why some Christians might think it is important to come together to worship God	Identify symbols (images and actions) used in Christian worship Talk about how and why symbols might be used in Christianity Identify and describe features of a church	Identify signs and symbols in the world around them Talk about the school logo – what values it might represent and how it might unite the school community	Ask thoughtful questions about signs and symbols Talk about communities that they belong to – and how they show their commitment to these communities
		Jesus	Suggest what Christians might mean when they refer to Jesus as ‘the Light of the world’ Talk about the different titles that might be given to Jesus – Christ/Messiah/Saviour/Son of God	Identify ways in which Christians might use light as part of their Christmas celebrations (advent candles, candle-light services, Christingle) – and the symbolic meaning Talk about the different ways that Christians might celebrate Christmas	Identify different ways that humans use light Discuss the importance of light – as a source of comfort, security and hope Talk about how and why light might be an important symbol	Ask questions about the value of sources of light in their own lives Talk about the people who provide comfort, security and hope for them Suggest ways in which they might be a light for others
		God	Retell (simply) the Genesis 1 story of creation Suggest why Christians might think it is important to look after the world	Suggest ways that Christians might express their concern for the natural world Describe how and why Christians might thank God for creation at Harvest festivals	Identify ways in which humans use (and abuse) the natural world Talk about why our planet should matter to all humans – and how this should influence our behaviour	Reflect on their own use of the world’s resources Ask questions about what they can do to show that they care about the world
			Knowing about and understanding religions and worldviews		Expressing and communicating ideas related to religions and worldviews
Lancashire Field of enquiry			Beliefs and values	Living Religious Traditions	Shared Human Experience	Search for Personal Meaning

Religious Education (Lancashire Agreed Syllabus) Christianity
Y1: What do people say about God?	RE Skills		Give an example of a key belief and/or a religious story Give an example of a core value or commitment	Use some religious words and phrases to recognise and name features of religious traditions Talk about the way that religious beliefs might influence the way a person behaves	Notice and show curiosity about people and how they live their lives	Ask questions Talk about their own experiences
	Content (Christianity)	Church	Know that some Christians welcome babies into God’s family (the Church) with baptism ceremonies Talk about what it might mean to belong to the Church family	Identify features of baptism – e.g. the font, candles, godparents Talk about why parents might want to have their child baptised	Talk about what is means to belong to a family Talk about the role of families in raising children	Talk about their own identity as part of a family and part of the school community
		Jesus	Know a simple version of the nativity story Talk about why Christians would say that Jesus is a special baby Talk about how different characters in the nativity welcome the baby Jesus	Identify religious aspects of Christmas celebrations Talk about why Christmas is a special time for Christians	Consider how and why babies might be special – and why they need love and care Talk about the importance of looking after those who cannot help themselves	Talk about their own beginnings and how they were welcomed into the family Reflect on who has helped them in life so far
		God	Know that Christians refer to God as ‘Father’ Talk about why Christians might compare God to a loving parent	Talk about how and why Christians might want to talk to God (prayer) Suggest symbolic meanings of rituals and items used in Christian prayer	Talk about the importance of love in families Talk about the ways in which they are cared for and supported by family members	Reflect on their own role within the family Discuss who they can talk to when they are happy/sad/ worried
			Knowing about and understanding religions and worldviews		Expressing and communicating ideas related to religions and worldviews
Lancashire Field of enquiry			Beliefs and values	Living Religious Traditions	Shared Human Experience	Search for Personal Meaning

The Lancashire Agreed Syllabus for RE has 3 strands of subject knowledge concerned with teaching about Christianity: God, Jesus and Church. These should be taught as three distinct RE units in each year. The RE skills should be developed throughout the year in all aspects of the RE curriculum and in the three strands of teaching about Christianity.

Although the three strands are to be taught distinctly, they will also contribute to a holistic understanding of the beliefs, values and living religious traditions of

Christianity. As pupils progress, they should increasingly be able to make connections from across the strands.

Religious Education (Lancashire Agreed Syllabus) Hindu Dharma
Y6: Is life like a journey?	RE Skills	Analyse beliefs, teachings and values and how they are linked Explain how the beliefs and values of a religious tradition might guide a believer through the journey of life Explain the impact of beliefs, values and practices – including differences between and within religious traditions	Use developing religious vocabulary to describe and show understanding of religious traditions, including practices, rituals and experiences Explain differing ideas about religious expression	Consider what makes us human – in terms of our beliefs and values, relationships with others and sense of identity and belonging Discuss how people change during the journey of life	Raise, discuss and debate questions about identity, belonging, meaning, purpose, truth, values and commitments Develop own views and ideas in response to learning Demonstrate increasing self- awareness in their own personal development
Y6: Is life like a journey?	Content (Hindu Dharma)	Analyse Hindu beliefs about samsara, karma and moksha and how these are linked Explain how belief in reincarnation might affect the way in which a Hindu views the ‘journey of life’ Explain how belief in reincarnation and the law of karma might affect the way a Hindu lives	Describe and explain the four ashramas (stages of life) in the life of a Hindu Explain how a person might change as they move from one ashrama to the next Consider the importance of the samskaras (rites of passage) in preparing a Hindu for the commitments of each ashrama	Discuss the special milestones that we might celebrate during a person’s lifetime Discuss how our rights, responsibilities and relationships with others might change as we go through life	Ask and respond thoughtfully to questions about their own journey of life – consider how events and influences so far have made them the person they are today and what has been important learning to prepare them for the future
Y5: Where can we find guidance about how to live our lives?	RE Skills	Make links between beliefs and sacred texts, including how and why religious sources are used to teach and guide believers Explain the impact of beliefs and values – including reasons for diversity	Explain differing forms of expression and why these might be used Describe diversity of religious practices and lifestyle within the religious tradition Interpret the deeper meaning of symbolism – contained in stories, images and actions	Explain (with appropriate examples) where people might seek wisdom and guidance Consider the role of rules and guidance in uniting communities	Discuss and debate the sources of guidance available to them Consider the value of differing sources of guidance
	Content (Hindu Dharma)	Make links between the story of Prince Prahlad and Hindu beliefs about devotion and loyalty Explain Hindu beliefs about Krishna and what stories about Krishna might teach Hindus Explain the Hindu belief that God is present in all people (through the atman) and the impact this might have on a believer	Describe and explain a variety of ways that Hindus might celebrate the festival of Holi Suggest why there might be differences in the way that Hindu festivals are celebrated in India and how Hindu communities and individuals in the UK might celebrate Explain how Holi celebrations might express Hindu beliefs about equality	Explain how festivals and celebrations might be helpful ways for communities and societies to pass on values, guidance and traditions Consider the different ways that myth and stories are and used Explain how a ‘truth’ might be contained within a story	Consider how they decide what is ‘true’ – and how there might be different types of truth (e.g. empirical truth, historical truth, spiritual truth) Discuss and debate things that they consider to be true that others might disagree with
		Knowing about and understanding religions and worldviews		Expressing and communicating ideas related to religions and worldviews
Lancashire Field of enquiry		Beliefs and values	Living Religious Traditions	Shared Human Experience	Search for Personal Meaning

Religious Education (Lancashire Agreed Syllabus) Hindu Dharma
		Describe what a believer might learn from a religious teaching/ story Make links between ideas about morality and sources of authority	Describe the impact religion has on believers’ lives Explain the deeper meaning and symbolism for specific religious practices	Consider the range of beliefs, values and lifestyles that exist in society Discuss how people make decisions about how to live their lives	Reflect on their own personal sources of wisdom and authority
Y4: How should we live our lives?	RE Skills
		Explore teachings about good and evil in the story of Rama and Sita Describe what moral guidance Hindus might gain from the story of Rama and Sita Make links between the actions of Rama and the belief that he is an avatar of Vishnu, appearing on earth to destroy evil and uphold Dharma	Use subject specific language to describe how and why Hindus celebrate Diwali Explain the importance of light in the Diwali celebrations, and how this is a symbol of good overcoming evil	Discuss (with relevant examples) the importance of the belief that good overcomes evil Suggest people, words or stories that might be inspiring when trying to overcome difficulties in life	Reflect on their own concept of ‘goodness’ Discuss what gives them hope during difficult times
	Content (Hindu Dharma)
	RE Skills	Show awareness of similarities in religions Identify beliefs and values contained within a story/teaching Identify the impact religion has on a believer	Identify how religion is expressed in different ways Use religious terms to describe how people might express their beliefs	Describe how some people, events and sources of wisdom have influenced and inspired others	In relation to matters of right and wrong, recognise their own and others’ values Discuss own questions and responses related to the question ‘who should we follow – and why?’
Y3: Who should we follow?		Develop an understanding of the importance of duty and commitment to many religions Know that following Dharma (religious duty) is an important part of Hindu life Suggest the impact of belief in Dharma, particularly the belief that there are three ‘debts’ – duty owed to God/the deities, duty owed to teachers, and duty owed to family	Describe how and why Hindus might celebrate Raksha Bandhan Identify aspects of the celebration which remind Hindus of their Dharma Identify religious teachings contained within a Hindu story – and suggest how these stories might be used to teach Hindu children about Dharma (e.g. What teachings about duty to family are expressed in the story of Rama and Sita?)	Identify sources of authority and inspiration Consider what our ‘duties’ as human beings are	Reflect on their own duties – to themselves, to their families, to their communities Discuss who or what they follow – and why
	Content (Hindu Dharma)
		Knowing about and understanding religions and worldviews		Expressing and communicating ideas related to religions and worldviews
Lancashire Field of enquiry		Beliefs and values	Living Religious Traditions	Shared Human Experience	Search for Personal Meaning

Religious Education (Lancashire Agreed Syllabus) Hindu Dharma
Y2: How do we respond to the things that really matter?	RE Skills	Retell and suggest meanings for religious stories and/or beliefs Use some religious words and phrases when talking about beliefs and values	Identify and describe how religion is expressed in different ways Suggest the symbolic meaning of imagery and actions	Identify things that influence a person’s sense of identity and belonging	Ask relevant questions Talk about their own identity and values
Y2: How do we respond to the things that really matter?	Content (Hindu Dharma)	Know that Hindus believe in one God (Brahman) who can be worshipped in many forms Know that these forms (the deities) have different qualities and are portrayed in different ways Suggest why Hindus might believe that it is important to show devotion to the deities	Know that Hindus might worship at a Mandir and/or the home shrine Suggest why worship in the home might be important Describe the meaning and symbolism of items used in worship (e.g. arti lamp, items on the puja tray)	Talk about qualities that make some people special Identify ways in which humans show their gratitude to the people who matter in their lives	Talk about who is special to them and why Reflect on who they should be grateful to and how they might show this in words and actions
		Give an example of a key belief and/or a religious story Give an example of a core value or commitment	Use some religious words and phrases to recognise and name features of religious traditions Talk about the way that religious beliefs might influence the way a person behaves	Notice and show curiosity about people and how they live their lives	Ask questions
Y1: What do people say about God?	RE Skills
Y1: What do people say about God?	Content (Hindu Dharma)	Know that Hindus believe in one God in many forms Know that Hindus believe that God is present in all living things Suggest what Hindus might learn about God from the story of the blind men and the elephant	Talk about how and why Hindus might use statues and images (murtis) in their worship Suggest symbolic meanings expressed in the images	Talk about the different ways that people can be seen and described Consider how people might have multiple roles	Reflect on how others might see them Talk about the different roles that they might have (friend, child, brother/sister etc.)
		Knowing about and understanding religions and worldviews		Expressing and communicating ideas related to religions and worldviews
Lancashire Field of enquiry		Beliefs and values	Living Religious Traditions	Shared Human Experience	Search for Personal Meaning

Religious Education (Lancashire Agreed Syllabus) Islam
Y6: Is life like a journey?	RE Skills	Analyse beliefs, teachings and values and how they are linked Explain how the beliefs and values of a religious tradition might guide a believer through the journey of life Explain the impact of beliefs, values and practices – including differences between and within religious traditions	Use developing religious vocabulary to describe and show understanding of religious traditions, including practices, rituals and experiences Explain differing ideas about religious expression	Consider what makes us human – in terms of our beliefs and values, relationships with others and sense of identity and belonging Discuss how people change during the journey of life	Raise, discuss and debate questions about identity, belonging, meaning, purpose, truth, values and commitments Develop own views and ideas in response to learning Demonstrate increasing self- awareness in their own personal development
	Content (Islam)	Analyse the Five Pillars of Islam and how they are linked Explain how the beliefs and values of Islam might guide a person through life Explain the importance of the Ummah for Muslims and that this is a community of diverse members	Describe and explain the importance of Hajj, including the practices, rituals and impact Explain how a person might change once becoming a hajji Consider how important it is for a Muslim to go on hajj – and what this means for those who are unable to make the pilgrimage	Discuss the various events that might happen on the journey of life and how people might change over the course of their life Consider what support people might need on life’s journey	Ask and respond thoughtfully to questions about their own journey of life – consider how they have changed so far, how they will continue to change and the support and guidance that might be needed
		Make links between beliefs and sacred texts, including how and why religious sources are used to teach and guide believers Explain the impact of beliefs and values – including reasons for diversity	Explain differing forms of expression and why these might be used Describe diversity of religious practices and lifestyle within the religious tradition Interpret the deeper meaning of symbolism – contained in stories, images and actions	Explain (with appropriate examples) where people might seek wisdom and guidance Consider the role of rules and guidance in uniting communities	Discuss and debate the sources of guidance available to them Consider the value of differing sources of guidance
Y5: Where can we find guidance about how to live our lives?	RE Skills
		Explore Islamic beliefs about the Qur’an as the word of God Explain how and why the Qur’an is a source of guidance for life for a Muslim Explain the impact of believing that the Qur’an is divine revelation Describe and explain what Muslims believe when they describe Muhammad (pbuh) as the seal of the prophets	Explain how and why Muslims might commemorate the Night of Power Describe and explain a variety of ways that Muslims might show respect for the Qur’an – and how this symbolises their respect for God Explain how the teachings of the Qur’an might influence the actions and choices of a Muslim	Discuss where people might look to for guidance about how to live – consider a range of sources of wisdom and authority Suggest when and why people might want guidance about how to live	Discuss who or what has guided them in their own beliefs, values and commitments Reflect on what ‘ultimate authority’ might mean for them
	Content (Islam)
		Knowing about and understanding religions and worldviews		Expressing and communicating ideas related to religions and worldviews
Lancashire Field of enquiry		Beliefs and values	Living Religious Traditions	Shared Human Experience	Search for Personal Meaning

Religious Education (Lancashire Agreed Syllabus) Islam
		Describe what a believer might learn from a religious teaching/ story Make links between ideas about morality and sources of authority	Describe the impact religion has on believers’ lives Explain the deeper meaning and symbolism for specific religious practices	Consider the range of beliefs, values and lifestyles that exist in society Discuss how people make decisions about how to live their lives	Reflect on their own personal sources of wisdom and authority
Y4: How should we live our lives?	RE Skills
Y4: How should we live our lives?	Content (Islam)	Explore Islamic teachings about Ramadan from the Qur’an Make links between Islamic values and the beliefs explored so far in their study of Islam	Use subject specific language to describe how and why Muslims fast at Ramadan Explain the importance of Ramadan in the context of the Five Pillars of Islam Consider the impact that fasting might have on individuals, families and communities	Discuss (with relevant examples) the importance of showing commitment to a belief, value or community Consider the role of sacrifice within religion and communities	Reflect on their own beliefs, values and commitments Consider and discuss how they demonstrate their personal commitments
Y3: Who should we follow?	RE Skills	Show awareness of similarities in religions Identify beliefs and values contained within a story/teaching Identify the impact religion has on a believer	Identify how religion is expressed in different ways Use religious terms to describe how people might express their beliefs	Describe how some people, events and sources of wisdom have influenced and inspired others	In relation to matters of right and wrong, recognise their own and others’ values Discuss own questions and responses related to the question ‘who should we follow – and why?’
Y3: Who should we follow?	Content (Islam)	Develop and understanding of the importance of founders and leaders for religious communities Identify Islamic beliefs and values contained within the story of the life of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) Describe how a Muslim might try to follow the teachings and example of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)	Describe and give reasons for the Islamic practice of Zakah Suggest why charity might be important to a Muslim – and the different ways that a Muslim might try to be charitable	Identify characteristics of a good role model Discuss how good role models can have a positive impact on individuals, communities and societies	Reflect on their own aspirations for themselves and others Ask questions and suggest answers about how they can try to make the world a better place
		Knowing about and understanding religions and worldviews		Expressing and communicating ideas related to religions and worldviews
Lancashire Field of enquiry		Beliefs and values	Living Religious Traditions	Shared Human Experience	Search for Personal Meaning

Religious Education (Lancashire Agreed Syllabus) Islam
Y2: How do we respond to the things that really matter?	RE Skills	Retell and suggest meanings for religious stories and/or beliefs Use some religious words and phrases when talking about beliefs and values	Identify and describe how religion is expressed in different ways Suggest the symbolic meaning of imagery and actions	Identify things that influence a person’s sense of identity and belonging	Ask relevant questions Talk about their own identity and values
Y2: How do we respond to the things that really matter?	Content (Islam)	Suggest why Muslims believe that it is important to respect God Talk about why Muslims would want to show their gratitude to God Know that submission to God is an important aspect of Islamic life	Identify that Islamic beliefs about God motivate most Muslims to pray on a regular basis Describe the rituals of Islamic prayer (salah), including wudhu and use of a prayer mat Suggest how making time for the five daily prayers is an act of submission	Talk about the ways in which shared rituals might unite communities (make links with the way that the Islamic community – the Ummah – is united by prayer) Identify ways in which humans show their gratitude	Talk about the things they do on a regular basis as a sign of their commitment and belonging Reflect on who they should be grateful to and how they show this
		Give an example of a key belief and/or a religious story Give an example of a core value or commitment	Use some religious words and phrases to recognise and name features of religious traditions Talk about the way that religious beliefs might influence the way a person behaves	Notice and show curiosity about people and how they live their lives	Ask questions
Y1: What do people say about God?	RE Skills
Y1: What do people say about God?	Content (Islam)	Know that Muslims believe in one God (Allah) Know that Muslims believe the world was created by God Talk about why Muslims might value the natural world	Know that Islam teaches that humans should be caretakers (stewards/Khalifahs) of the planet Suggest how Muslims might show respect for God by caring for the natural world	Talk about their own experiences and feelings about the natural world and what they have noticed about the way that humans treat it	Reflect on how they treat the natural world – and if they have a duty to look after it
		Knowing about and understanding religions and worldviews		Expressing and communicating ideas related to religions and worldviews
Lancashire Field of enquiry		Beliefs and values	Living Religious Traditions	Shared Human Experience	Search for Personal Meaning

Right of Withdraw

The law states that:

If the parent asks that a pupil should be wholly or partly excused from receiving any religious education at the school, then the school must comply;
As schools act in loco parentis, a school continues to be responsible for the supervision of any child withdrawn by its parents from RE unless the child is lawfully receiving religious education elsewhere;
Withdrawal time should not be used to teach other curriculum areas e.g. additional mathematics sessions;
If a parent so requests, and so long as the local authority is satisfied that this will not interfere with the child’s attendance at school other than at the beginning or end of any school session, a pupil may be withdrawn from the school premises to receive religious education elsewhere of a kind which is not provided in the school during the periods of time that the child is so excused.

It should be noted that arranging alternative religious education is extremely rare.

If a parent wishes their child to receive alternative religious education that cannot be provided elsewhere (as above), the school is required to allow such education within the school as long as it does not consider there are special circumstances in which it would be unreasonable to do so. Any arrangement must not incur any extra cost for the school. This usually would mean that parents could send in RE materials for the pupil to work on during RE lesson.

All requests to withdraw from Religious Education lessons must be made to the headteacher head@northern.lancs.sch.uk