At Thatcham Park Church of England Primary and Nursery School, Religious Education (RE) plays a central role in expressing and living out our Christian vision. Through RE, pupils develop religious literacy, enabling them to understand Christianity as a living global faith and to engage thoughtfully and respectfully with a diverse range of religious and non-religious worldviews. 

We want our children to be active, inclusive citizens who understand and celebrate diversity, show respect for others and develop the confidence to discuss important questions about life, beliefs and values. RE contributes significantly to pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and supports them in understanding both their own beliefs and those of others in modern Britain and the wider world. 

Our RE Curriculum

Religious Education is taught in accordance with the Pan Berkshire Agreed Syllabus and is supported by the Oxford Diocesan Board of Education scheme. Christianity is taught in every year group and makes up at least 50% of curriculum time. Pupils also learn about a range of religious and non-religious worldviews through carefully planned units that build knowledge and understanding over time. 

Our curriculum enables pupils to:

• Develop knowledge and understanding of Christianity and a range of religious and non-religious worldviews.
• Explore significant questions about meaning, purpose, truth and identity.
• Understand how beliefs and values influence individuals, communities and societies.
• Develop respect, empathy and understanding towards people of all faiths and none.
• Reflect on and articulate their own beliefs, values and experiences.
• Become increasingly religiously literate through the study of theology, philosophy and human and social sciences. 

How We Learn in RE

Our RE curriculum is enquiry-led and encourages pupils to ask questions, investigate different viewpoints, evaluate evidence and develop informed responses. Pupils learn through discussion, reflection, debate, creative activities, storytelling, visitors, artefacts and visits to places of worship where possible. 

RE lessons provide opportunities for pupils to:

• Think deeply about life's "big questions".
• Explore similarities and differences between beliefs and traditions.
• Learn from people with different beliefs and experiences.
• Develop confidence in expressing their own ideas and listening to the views of others.
• Build the skills needed to engage respectfully with a diverse society. 

Christianity as a Global Faith

As a Church of England school, Christianity is at the heart of our RE curriculum. Pupils encounter Christianity as a diverse global living faith, exploring how Christians live and express their beliefs in different cultures and communities around the world. Through the study of biblical texts, Christian beliefs and Christian practice, pupils develop a deeper understanding of Christianity's influence on individuals, communities and society. 

Learning About World Views

We believe it is important for children to understand the rich diversity of beliefs that exist in our world. Alongside Christianity, pupils learn about a range of religious and non-religious worldviews, recognising that within every tradition there is diversity, complexity and difference. Through this learning, pupils develop respect, understanding and what we describe as "generous hospitality" towards others. 

Our aim is not to tell children what to believe, but to help them understand different perspectives and think critically about the world around them. RE is taught in an objective, critical and pluralist manner, encouraging thoughtful discussion and reasoned judgement. 

Inclusion and Belonging

We are committed to ensuring that every child flourishes in RE. Learning is adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with SEND. We want every child to feel valued, heard and able to contribute to discussions, regardless of their background, beliefs or experiences. RE supports our vision of dignity, community, wisdom and hope for all. 

Right of Withdrawal

Parents have the right to withdraw their child from all or part of Religious Education. If you are considering this, we encourage you to speak with the Headteacher so that we can discuss the curriculum and answer any questions you may have. Further information can be found in our Religious Education Policy.