‘Central to the approach to learning in ‘Challenging RE’ is the process of building conceptual bridges between the pupils’ own lives and the content that they explore. Whatever background a pupil comes from, RE must engage all pupils in meaningful learning that they can apply to their own lives. And this means engaging pupils in their learning by building bridges between pupils’ experience and religious/worldview contexts.’

2023 Agreed Syllabus

Religious Education Vision Statement

Developing curiosity and understanding through encouraging inclusive, respectful and reflective global citizens, with an awareness of the religions, traditions and cultures influencing our multi-cultural society.

Intent

At Botley School we are committed to developing religiously literate pupils, who acquire the knowledge and understanding of the principle religions through an engaging and nurturing environment. RE is used to engage, inspire, challenge and encourage our pupils, equipping them with the skills to answer challenging concepts and questions, explore different religious beliefs, values and traditions. Pupils experience and explore key religious communities and build an appreciation for their influence on individual’s lives and behaviours. RE is enquiry led and develops their ability to reason and reflect upon religious and moral issues. RE promotes acceptance and enables pupils to combat prejudice, preparing them for life in a multi-cultural society.

RE is taught throughout the school in such a way as to reflect the overall aims, values, and philosophy of the school. RE plays an important role in promoting the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of our children.

Right to Withdraw from Religious Education

Parents may withdraw their children from all or any part of religious education and teachers can exercise their right to withdraw from teaching the subject. However, we hope that all parents and teachers will feel comfortable with the type of religious education being taught at this school. We value the influence of each religion and worldview explored and their contribution to the education of all our pupils. We promote teaching in Religious Education that supports open enquiry and first-hand experiences where possible. Parents who wish to withdraw their children are asked provide written notification to this effect.