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Religious Education

'The aim of Religious Education in schools is to contribute educationally to the development of pupils as individuals and members of society by fostering a reflective approach to life in the context of a growing understanding of the experiences, attitudes, beliefs and religious practices of humanity.'
(Bedfordshire Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education, July 1996)

Religious Education provides opportunities for pupils in the Junior School to develop an understanding of Christianity and other principal religions in Great Britain; explore issues within and between faiths and understand the influence of these on individuals, societies, communities and cultures; develop the ability to enquire and make reasoned and informed judgements on religious and moral issues; reflect on their own beliefs, values and practices and be able to communicate their responses; develop a positive attitude towards other people and their beliefs, preparing them for life as citizens in a plural society. Religious Education is taught for one period each week across all year groups.  In Years 3 and 4 the content of the lessons is largely Christian based with some references to and comparisons made with other religions.  In Years 5 and 6, aspects of Judaism, Sikhism and Islam are studied in greater detail and comparisons made with Christianity.