Religious Studies

The study of RS in Years 3 to 6 at Bede’s has three main objectives:

• To increase knowledge and understanding of some of the major world religions; their beliefs, traditions and history.

• To encourage pupils to start to ask questions about what is right and wrong in the world around them

• To introduce pupils to morality and ethics

Through this, our aim is that pupils develop tolerance and respect of other beliefs and religious traditions. During Years 3 to 6, children have an introduction to some of the major world religions, with equal emphasis. Alongside the lessons themselves, the school aims to increase children’s moral and spiritual awareness and reflective thinking skills through assemblies once a week (which cover major festivals when they occur) and a Chapel service in the Christian tradition. Though the school has a predominantly Christian tradition it is most of all a community that welcomes and respects all religions; and this is really at the heart of the syllabus within the school.

What skills will my child develop?

• Asking relevant questions

• Learning to debate issues of religious significance

• Developing Empathy accepting other people views

• Developing the power of imagination to identify feelings such as love,wonder, forgiveness and sorrow.

Helpful Resources

• Supporting through conversation to discuss what is being learnt in the classroom which will allow for further questioning to extend their understanding. Opportunities to visit or see through documentaries will also allow students to explore a wider variety of experiences and develop their learning.

Sam

Brown

Head of Religious Studies

In Year 3 we learn about the Bible and why it is important for Christians as well as what we know about Jesus, learn about Hinduism and the festival of Diwali, consider the signs and symbols of Judaism. We also consider broader questions around faith and the difference it makes to people’s lives.

In Year 4 we consider more aspects of Hinduism, learn about the Christmas Journeys and learn about the religions which are represented in our own neighbourhood.

In Year 5 we learn about why Mohammed is important to Muslims and how Muslim beliefs are represented through practices. We learn more about the Bible and consider Easter and its significance to Christians.

Finally in Year 6, we turn to the study of Jewish religious artefacts and through this examine the beliefs, culture and tradition of Judaism. We examine Hanukkah and its practices as well as the Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah, considering the responsibilities which children take on at this point.

This leads on to a wider consideration of children’s human rights in which we consider Malala Yousafzi and her significance in respect of the rights of children around the world.