Our Religious Education Curriculum Vision

Intent: Embracing Diversity through Understanding

At Drybrook Primary School, our Religious Education (RE) curriculum is carefully crafted to cultivate a deep understanding and respect for diverse religious beliefs, values, and traditions. We are dedicated to preparing our pupils to navigate a multicultural and diverse society with tolerance, empathy, and a sense of global citizenship. Our RE curriculum aims to foster not just knowledge but also appreciation for the ever-evolving nature of religion as an academic discipline.

Implementation: Nurturing Cultural Awareness and Ethical Understanding

In the context of the Forest of Dean's limited religious diversity, RE at Drybrook Primary serves as a vital conduit to 'bring the world' to our children, enhancing their cultural awareness and understanding of the modern world's diverse beliefs. Our inclusive curriculum begins with introducing the main world religions, focusing initially on Christianity. As pupils progress to the end of Key Stage 2, they develop an extensive understanding of various religious thoughts, philosophical concepts, and the ability to reflect on their own beliefs. Our teaching approach encourages open dialogue, critical thinking, and respectful discussions about diverse religious beliefs. We integrate ethical teachings from various religions to instill important values like compassion, honesty, tolerance, and responsibility, thereby encouraging pupils to reflect on the moral and ethical dimensions of different belief systems.

Impact: Fostering a Tolerant and Thoughtful Community

The impact of our RE curriculum is aimed at fostering an environment where pupils develop cultural competence, appreciating the rich diversity in our global society and engaging respectfully with people from different backgrounds. Our pupils are encouraged to enhance their critical thinking skills by analysing and comparing various religious perspectives. This approach to religious education promotes the development of a strong moral character and enables pupils to apply ethical values in making informed and compassionate decisions. Furthermore, we strive to build a school culture that values inclusivity, tolerance, and respect for others' beliefs, contributing to a community that celebrates diversity and encourages positive social interactions.

Through our RE curriculum, Drybrook Primary pupils are equipped to understand and embrace the complexities of life, recognising that there are often no absolute "right answers" and that they will encounter a wide array of people and ideas throughout their lives. Our programme prepares them to be understanding and tolerant of differences, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to thrive in a multicultural world.