Religious Education

RE at Trythall Community Primary School

The principal aim of RE is to engage pupils in systematic enquiry into significant human questions which religion and worldviews address, so that they can develop the understanding and skills needed to appreciate and appraise varied responses to these questions, as well as develop responses of their own.

The RE syllabus (Cornwall Agreed Syllabus)  is based around a key question approach, where the questions open up the content to be studied.  These questions support teachers in delivering high-quality RE that enables coherence and progression.  The key questions give structured support in terms of ‘emerging’, ‘expected’ and ‘exceeding’ learning outcomes and suggested content to enable good planning and progression.

Pupils will be taught in class groups, following a whole school 2 year plan and units of work by RE Today.  Teachers will differentiate their approach and strategies to take account of pupils’ individual ability.  Work in RE is not always in written form and there is more of an emphasis on discussion, drama, dance, music and art. 

Syllabus Content

The syllabus requires that all pupils learn about Christianity in each key stage.  In addition, pupils will learn from the principal religions represented in the UK, in line with the law.  Non-religious worldviews including for example Humanism will also be  the focus for study.

Right to Withdraw Your Child

We understand that some of our families will have some reservations around their child learning about religion.  Our RE Curriculum is based on the Agreed Syllabus for Cornwall and is delivered with caution and sensitivity to ensure that all children have the opportunity to learn about a variety of faiths.  We believe that this supports the children building tolerance for beliefs that do not align with their own or those of their families.  Our teaching always intoduces a new faith or belief with "This is what some people believe." 

Parents have a right of withdrawal from all or part of RE on the grounds that they wish to make their own provision.  An alternative learning opportunity at the time of the RE lessons is the parents responsibility.  If you have any concerns about what or how we are teaching your child about different religions please make an appointment to speak to Nicky.