Intent

At Rosewood, we follow the Discovery RE framework, which acknowledges the multi-faith nature of society. Discovery RE employs an inquiry-based approach, allowing children to discuss and consider the diversity of faiths, compare and contrast them, and reflect on moral values. The faiths studied include Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, and Sikhism, with an emphasis on learning about and from these religions.

Our R.E. curriculum enables children to explore and gain insight into religions within the world we live. Through Discovery RE, children access a broad curriculum that provides opportunities to learn about different religions, delve deeper into their learning, and build on prior knowledge. This approach fosters a greater understanding and appreciation of different faiths, promoting respect, tolerance and critical thinking skills among pupils.

 Learning About Religion

At Rosewood, RE plays a crucial role in nurturing cultural awareness and respect for diverse belief systems. The RE curriculum offers a structured platform for pupils to investigate profound questions and gain insights into various religions, as well as the ways in which adherents practise their faith. Through this exploration, students not only acquire knowledge about different religious traditions but also cultivate empathy and understanding towards individuals who follow these belief systems. This inclusive approach to learning about religion fosters a rich tapestry of perspectives within our school community.

Learning From Religion

In our RE curriculum, we offer children the chance to delve into their own spirituality and engage with their understanding of faith. This exploration encourages them to reflect on their beliefs, values and the role of religion in their lives. By facilitating this process, we empower students to develop their own perspectives, make informed decisions about how they want to lead their lives and embrace the diversity of faith traditions around them. This approach fosters critical thinking, empathy, and respect for different worldviews.

Implementation

Within RE at Rosewood, pupils gain insights from various religions and worldviews, exploring diverse ways of life at local, national, and global levels. They cultivate the ability to discern the significance of wisdom originating from different societal groups, engage in respectful disagreements, respond rationally to religions and worldviews, and articulate reflections on their own lives and those of others.

Every unit of study within the RE curriculum features a central question that encourages students to delve deeply into the religion under examination. Concepts are revisited and expanded upon as students progress through the curriculum, ensuring a comprehensive understanding. Teaching strategies are tailored to maintain relevance and engagement, fostering curiosity among the pupils at Rosewood School.

Amidst curriculum adaptations to suit individual pupil needs, particular emphasis is placed on accommodating those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) by acknowledging the significance of foundational knowledge in the learning process. Clear exposition, building upon prior knowledge, supports effective learning progression. Beginning their journey in Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), children explore their beliefs and family traditions, progressively expanding their understanding as they advance through the school.

Enriching the RE experience, first-hand encounters, excursions, guest speakers, and authentic artefacts are seamlessly integrated into the curriculum, facilitating students in formulating inquiries and posing meaningful questions. The RE curriculum's steadfast integration of regular retrieval activities serves to enhance long-term memory capabilities, aiding children in expanding their knowledge base and fostering retention of essential concepts.

The key question for the enquiry is such that it demands an answer that weighs up ‘evidence’ and reaches a conclusion based on this. This necessitates children using their subject knowledge and applying it to the enquiry question, rather than this knowledge being an end in itself. Rosewood focuses on critical thinking skills, on personal reflection into children’s own thoughts and feelings, on growing subject knowledge and nurturing spiritual development.

Impact

Through comprehensive exposure to various faiths and practices, children develop a deep knowledge, respect, and understanding for different beliefs and the individuals who adhere to them. This fosters a sense of inclusivity and openness towards diverse perspectives, nurturing a tolerant and empathetic generation.

Moreover, practitioners at Rosewood encourage children to explore their own spirituality, facilitating self-reflection and the development of personal value systems. Equipped with this introspective awareness, children are empowered to make conscious decisions about the paths they choose to follow in life, aligning their actions with their beliefs and principles.

A key outcome of the RE curriculum at Rosewood Primary is the cultivation of respectful dialogue and discourse among students. Children learn to appreciate that differing viewpoints exist and are encouraged to engage in constructive conversations, actively listening to and considering opposing perspectives with an open mind. This ability to engage in respectful discussions and respectfully disagree is a vital skill that prepares children for navigating a diverse and complex society.

Furthermore, the RE curriculum at Rosewood instils in children an appreciation for the rich tapestry of beliefs, traditions, and cultures that exist within society. By celebrating the diversity of views, beliefs, and perspectives present, children develop a sense of unity amidst differences, fostering a harmonious and inclusive community.

In essence, the curriculum at Rosewood plays a pivotal role in shaping well-rounded individuals who not only possess a broad understanding of various faiths and beliefs but also embody values of respect, empathy, and open-mindedness essential for building a cohesive and tolerant society.

British Values in RE

Teaching British values is crucial as it helps children develop a sense of identity, belonging, and responsibility to their country. By instilling these values early on, Rosewood lays the groundwork for responsible citizenship and active participation in society. Our RE curriculum provides opportunities for these values to be explored. Our RE curriculum teaches the laws of religion so that children explore not just UK laws, but rules and laws in other contexts. Teachers seek opportunities within lesson to discuss and broaden children's understanding of the British values.

RE in Early Years

In Reception and Nursery, the children at Rosewood are cultivating positive attitudes towards diversity, including variances in race and religion. We actively acknowledge and honour diverse beliefs, while also appreciating the significance of specific places to individuals within our community. Through a combination of play, literature, music, festivities, and attentiveness to the children's curiosity, we foster an environment where exploring and understanding different aspects of religion and belief systems is integrated into their learning experiences.