Religious Education
At Hertford Primary School, we believe that it is important for all our pupils to learn from and about religion so that they can better understand the world around them. The cultural capital that is built over time will enable all Hertford children to question and develop their understanding of the world, enhancing their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. Alongside promoting a sense of self-worth and developing an awareness of individual contributions to society, the study of RE will highlight the rights and responsibilities of the Hertford child as a UK and global citizen and as a member of our school and local community.
Our RE curriculum develops a knowledge and understanding of the common belief systems held both within the local community and worldwide to build an appreciation of the way that religious beliefs shape life and behaviour. By exploring the key beliefs, principles and practices of Christianity, Judaism, Islam and Hinduism and other faith communities represented within the school, the Hertford child will develop a respect for the opinions and beliefs of others whilst discovering common threads between different religions and world views. Through the study of RE, the Hertford child will become resilient, accepting, mindful and inquisitive and will be able to make reasoned and informed judgements about religious and moral issues.
Each term, a school-wide ‘Big Question’ will encourage children to explore the meaning and purpose of life, developing key skills in critical and logical thinking, reasoning, evaluation and negotiation. As they work together to enquire into, explore, evaluate and express their findings around this ‘big idea’, links will be made across the curriculum and connections made with individual beliefs, experiences and values. Weekly sessions will centre around child-led discussion, allowing the thoughts and opinions of children from all backgrounds to be explored.