Religious Education at Chapel Hill
Vision
At Chapel Hill, we believe Religious Education should develop understanding, respect and curiosity about different beliefs and worldviews. We aim to equip pupils with the knowledge and skills to explore religion and non-religious perspectives, enabling them to engage thoughtfully with the diverse world around them.
Intent
Our Religious Education curriculum is designed to help children acquire and develop knowledge and understanding of major world religions and non-religious worldviews.
Through our teaching, pupils will:
- Understand how religious beliefs influence individuals, communities and societies
- Develop the ability to make reasoned and informed judgements about moral and religious issues
- Express their ideas confidently, using appropriate vocabulary
- Engage in discussion and debate with tolerance, respect and open-mindedness
We aim to foster thoughtful, reflective learners who appreciate diversity and understand the importance of respect in a multicultural society.
Implementation
Religious Education at Chapel Hill is delivered through a structured and progressive curriculum using the agreed syllabus (SACRE Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education).
Curriculum Structure
- Units are taught using a consistent 5-lesson sequence:
Engage → Enquire & Explore (2 lessons) → Evaluate → Express - Pupils study five units per year group, ensuring breadth and depth of learning
Key Areas of Study
Learning is organised through three disciplinary lenses:
- Theology – Thinking through believing
- Human and Social Sciences – Thinking through living
- Philosophy – Thinking through thinking
At the end of each unit, pupils complete a summary piece of work in their Topic books, demonstrating their understanding and reflecting on their learning.
Enrichment Opportunities
- Visits from faith leaders and members of the community
- A Celebration of Faith Week, as part of the school’s Diversity Month
These experiences provide meaningful, real-life context and deepen pupils’ understanding of different beliefs and practices.
Impact
Our Religious Education curriculum ensures that pupils develop the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to engage confidently with RE at Key Stage 3 and beyond.
By the end of their time at Chapel Hill, pupils will:
- Speak knowledgeably and confidently about religious and non-religious worldviews
- Understand how beliefs influence actions and ways of life
- Demonstrate respect for their own beliefs and those of others
- Engage in thoughtful discussion, using reasoned arguments and evidence
Pupils leave Chapel Hill as reflective, respectful individuals who value diversity and understand the important role that religion and non-religion play in society and culture.