St Catherine’s teaching of RE

The intent for for Religious Education (RE) at St Catherine's is that pupils are engaged, inspired and challenged throughout their in depth studies of faith within a multi-cultural society. Religious education will equip them with the knowledge and skills to grapple with life's big questions, explore different religious beliefs, values and traditions and develop a respectful understanding beliefs that may differ from their own. Through these studies, we aim to embed the core values of respect, wisdom and compassion. Through cross-curricular links within the subject, we can promote the children's capacity for awe and wonder, ability to demonstrate curiosity and open mindedness, allowing them to be self-aware and empathise with others. This is frequently carried out through the 'Windows, Mirrors and Doors' approach which allows pupils to bring this learning into their own consciousness and reflect and act upon their new found understanding. 

St Catherine's School uses the Hertfordshire Agreed Syllabus of Religious Education, to deliver well-rounded, inclusive and interesting RE lessons. The syllabus was newly introduced in 2017 and all teaching staff have received relevant training.

Should anyone wish to look at the syllabus, or discuss further, please feel free to ring the office and arrange an appointment with our RE leader, who will be happy to talk about the structure and content of our RE lessons.

The aims of the Herts Agreed Syllabus for RE are that all pupils develop knowledge and understanding of sources of wisdom and their impact whilst exploring personal and critical responses.

Within ‘sources of wisdom and their impact’ all pupils should:

• know, understand and explore the significance and impact of sacred texts, other sources of wisdom and ways of expressing meaning
• express ideas and insights about the nature of beliefs, values and practices and their impact upon the identity of individuals and communities
• recognise and explore the diversity which exists within and between religious traditions

Within ‘personal and critical responses’ all pupils should:

• express with increasing discernment their personal reflections, critical responses and connections to faith and belief enquiring into philosophical, moral and ethical issues

• engage with the questions and answers offered by religions and worldviews concerning ultimate questions and human responsibility
• develop the skills required to engage with others in dialogue and to cooperate in society with respect and compassion

By the end of each key stage, pupils are expected to know, apply and understand the matters, skills and processes specified in the relevant programme of study.