Religious Education at Longtown Primary School
At Longtown Primary School, we believe that Religious Education (RE) plays an important role in helping children understand the diverse world in which they live. Our curriculum encourages pupils to explore different religions, beliefs and worldviews while developing respect, curiosity and an appreciation of the beliefs and experiences of others.
We use the PlanBee RE scheme to support the delivery of a broad and progressive curriculum. Children explore a range of religions, traditions, celebrations, beliefs and practices, building their knowledge and understanding as they move through school. Learning encourages children to ask meaningful questions, explore different viewpoints and consider how religious beliefs can influence the way people live their lives.
RE provides valuable opportunities for children to reflect on their own beliefs, values and experiences, while recognising that others may hold beliefs and views that are different from their own. Through discussion, enquiry and reflection, pupils develop the skills to express their ideas thoughtfully, listen to others and make informed judgements about religious and moral questions.
Learning about religious, cultural and ethnic diversity is an important part of our provision. By encountering a range of faiths, cultures and perspectives, children develop greater understanding and respect for the diversity that exists within modern Britain and the wider world.
Where possible, classroom learning is enriched through visitors, celebrations, artefacts and opportunities to learn about places of worship, helping children make meaningful connections between what they learn and how faith and belief are experienced in everyday life.
RE also makes an important contribution to children’s spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and their understanding of British Values, particularly mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
Most importantly, we want our children to become respectful, open-minded and thoughtful individuals who feel confident discussing different beliefs and perspectives and are well prepared to live and contribute positively within a diverse society.
The Right to Withdraw from Religious Education
We believe that Religious Education is an important part of a broad and balanced curriculum. It gives children valuable opportunities to learn about different religions, beliefs and worldviews, helping them to develop understanding, respect and the skills they need to live in a diverse society.
Parents and carers have the legal right to withdraw their child from all or part of Religious Education. We encourage any parent considering withdrawal to first familiarise themselves with the aims and content of our RE curriculum and to speak with the Headteacher so that we can discuss any questions or concerns.
If you wish to withdraw your child, you should make a written request to the Headteacher, making clear whether you are requesting withdrawal from all RE lessons or particular elements of the curriculum. Parents and carers are not required to provide a reason for their request.
What happens if my child is withdrawn?
Where a child is withdrawn from RE, the school will ensure that they are appropriately supervised, although there is no requirement for the school to provide alternative teaching or additional curriculum provision. Where appropriate, the child may complete independent work in another supervised area of the school.
Parents and carers should also be aware that children may encounter religions, beliefs, cultures and different worldviews within other areas of school life and the wider curriculum, such as History, PSHE, assemblies and discussions around diversity and community. The right of withdrawal from RE does not extend to these wider curriculum experiences.
Children may also naturally ask questions about religion, faith and belief during other lessons. We believe these conversations are an important part of helping pupils develop an understanding of identity, diversity, respect and the world around them.
If you are considering withdrawing your child from RE, or would like to know more about what is taught, please contact the school office to arrange a discussion with the Headteacher.
The right of withdrawal is provided for under Section 71 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998.