Religious Education
Flourishing through Religious Education
Religious Education at St George’s is a space for discovery, reflection and growth. Rooted in our Christian vision that every child may have life and have it to the full, the curriculum invites pupils to explore who they are and who they are called to be. It is built on the belief that every child is made in the image of God and capable of deep thought, moral insight and spiritual encounter. Through each unit, children are encouraged to examine their values, engage with the beliefs of others and reflect on life’s most profound questions.
A Curriculum of Dignity, Enquiry and Encounter
The curriculum is shaped by the Church of England’s Statement of Entitlement, ensuring that pupils encounter a wide range of worldviews while studying Christianity in depth and as a living global faith. Christianity forms at least half of the curriculum across all key stages. Alongside this, children explore Islam, Judaism, Hinduism and Sikhism, developing as informed and respectful citizens within a diverse society.
Religious Education at St George’s is not defined by the pursuit of answers, but by the quality of the questions asked. Each unit begins with an enquiry question that holds theological, philosophical or social significance. Questions such as Is forgiveness always possible?, What is the best way for a Muslim to lead a good life?, and How does belief in Akhirah help Muslims live well? are explored through structured dialogue, personal reflection and academic investigation.
Spiritual development is supported through Calling Questions and Spiritual Prompts, which are woven into the learning sequence. These moments of stillness and wonder help children cultivate curiosity, empathy and integrity.
Learning That Builds Wisdom
The curriculum is based on Jigsaw Religious Education and is carefully structured to ensure progression in both knowledge and thinking. Pupils revisit key concepts such as sacred texts, community, commitment, symbolism and God across different year groups and faiths. This conceptual framework allows children to build on prior learning and apply their understanding in increasingly complex ways.
Religious knowledge is explored through three disciplinary lenses. Theology invites pupils to consider what people believe, why they believe it and how those beliefs are expressed through sacred texts and tradition. Philosophy encourages reasoning, debate and reflection on meaning, truth and ethics. Human and social sciences help children understand how religion is lived out in real communities across time and cultures.
This balanced approach ensures that Religious Education is intellectually rigorous, emotionally resonant and spiritually engaging. Pupils learn to interpret texts, empathise with others, express their views and evaluate complex ideas with integrity.
Lessons are adapted to meet the needs of all learners, including those with special educational needs or those learning English as an additional language. Vocabulary is explicitly taught and revisited, with opportunities for children to apply language in writing, speech and discussion. Assessment is structured around clear end points that support long-term progression in both substantive and disciplinary knowledge.
A Community That Grows in Faith and Understanding
In our classrooms, children listen with respect, respond with maturity and engage with challenging ideas thoughtfully. Over time, they grow into reflective thinkers who can articulate their beliefs, challenge injustice and live out values of compassion and wisdom.
Religious Education is celebrated across the school. It is visible not only in books and displays, but also in worship, prayer, advocacy and action. Pupils regularly contribute to collective worship, drawing on insights from their learning. They come to understand that religion is not abstract, but deeply connected to identity, community and the way we live.
By the time they leave St George’s, children possess a strong moral compass, secure religious literacy and a deep appreciation for the richness and diversity of belief. Most importantly, they understand that they are called to live with faith, respect and purpose in the world.
We respect that families have different beliefs and perspectives. Parents and carers have the right, under education law, to withdraw their child wholly or partly from Religious Education if they wish.