RE is not just an academic subject, but, lies at the very heart of the curriculum and has an important role in reflecting and conveying the distinctively Christian character of our school. We follow the Southward Diocesan Board of Education's syllabus.

Religious Education at All Saints’ C of E Primary School

At All Saints’, Religious Education (RE) is central to our Christian vision: “Growing Stronger Together in God’s Love.” Rooted in the belief that every person is created in the image of God, our RE curriculum enables all pupils to flourish, live well together, and develop dignity, respect and understanding.

We follow the Southwark Diocesan Board of Education (SDBE) syllabus, delivering a high-quality, inclusive and engaging RE curriculum that is at the heart of our school’s distinctiveness. Our teaching is shaped by our core values of Koinonia (community), Love, and Compassion, and is underpinned by key biblical teachings that guide pupils’ understanding of faith, relationships and the wider world.

Our Approach

RE is taught as a core subject through weekly, discrete lessons, making up approximately 5–10% of curriculum time, in line with SDBE guidance. Lessons are carefully planned to be progressive, creative and relevant, with opportunities for both short and extended learning tasks. Assessment is used meaningfully to support pupils’ progress in knowledge and skills.

The curriculum is structured through:

• Systematic units (focused on Christianity and other world religions)

• Thematic units (exploring connections across beliefs and practices)

We also draw on the Understanding Christianity resource where appropriate to deepen learning.

Developing Religious Literacy

Our curriculum enables pupils to develop religious literacy through three key lenses:

• Believing (Theological) – understanding core beliefs and teachings

• Thinking (Philosophical) – exploring questions of meaning and truth

• Living (Human & Social Sciences) – examining how beliefs are lived out

Through these lenses, pupils build knowledge of Christianity and other world religions, while developing skills of enquiry, interpretation, reflection and respectful dialogue.

Spiritual Development

Spirituality is woven throughout RE using the Windows, Mirrors and Doors approach:

• Windows – learning about others’ beliefs and experiences

• Mirrors – reflecting on personal beliefs and values

• Doors – responding through action, discussion and engagement

Oracy and Inclusion

Oracy is a key feature of RE at All Saints’. Pupils are supported to express ideas clearly, listen respectfully and engage in thoughtful discussion using structured talk and sentence stems. This ensures that RE is accessible, inclusive and meaningful for all learners, including those with SEND and disadvantaged pupils.

Through our RE curriculum, pupils are equipped to explore big questions, understand diverse world views and contribute positively to life in modern Britain with empathy, confidence and respect.