Teaching Our Faith

Religious Eduction

Intent

We are a Catholic school with faith at the heart of everything we do. We value every child as unique, created in the image of God. Our Religious Education (RE) curriculum fosters wonder, awe, and reverence, encouraging children to explore their own faith while developing respect and understanding for the beliefs and traditions of others. Through the study of the Bible, Catholic teachings, and the lives of inspiring role models, children learn about God’s love, their Christian responsibilities, and how to live with Christ at the centre of their lives. RE at St. Joseph’s provides opportunities for children to engage with Catholic and Christian traditions, reflect on their spiritual development, and grow in moral awareness, empathy, and compassion.

Implementation
Religious Education underpins everything we do at St. Joseph’s, providing a framework for children to grow in faith, morality, and understanding.

• Early Years & Key Stage 1 follow the Lighting the Path programme.

• Key Stage 2 follows The Way, The Truth and The Life.

RE is taught as a core subject across the school, in line with the Bishop’s Conference recommendations. Each year group follows a structured long-term plan, with half-termly units that build progressively on prior learning. Themes such as Creation and Covenant, The Church, Eucharist, and Resurrection run throughout the curriculum, ensuring continuity and depth.

Children are encouraged to engage creatively, ask questions, and express their understanding in a variety of ways. As they progress, pupils learn key scripture, retell Bible stories, and make connections between Church teachings, Catholic social values, and the lives of saints.

The curriculum also includes teaching about other faiths. In addition to topics covered within the main schemes, pupils study Judaism for one week in the Autumn Term and another major world faith in the Spring Term, developing respect and understanding for diverse beliefs. Practical experiences, class saint studies, and charitable projects reinforce their learning of Catholic social teaching.

Teachers use adaptive strategies to ensure all children can access learning, including stretch and challenge opportunities for the most able.

Impact

Through RE at St. Joseph’s, children develop a deep understanding of Catholic teachings and the values of other religions. They are inspired to think critically, reflect spiritually and morally, and apply their knowledge to real-life situations. Pupils leave the school equipped to articulate their beliefs, make informed judgements, and live out their faith in everyday life, demonstrating empathy, compassion, and responsibility towards others.

Religious Education Newsletters

Please see this half term's newsletter below. You can see what your child is learning and how you can help support their learning across the RE curriculum. If you need a paper copy please ask at School reception office. Thank you for helping the environment by saving paper.