Aims and objectives  

Religious education enables children to investigate and reflect on some of the most fundamental questions asked by people. At Kegworth we develop the children’s knowledge and understanding of the major world faiths, and we address fundamental questions concerning, for example, the meaning of life and the existence of a divine spirit. 

The objectives of teaching religious education in our school are to help children: develop an awareness of spiritual and moral issues arising in their lives; develop knowledge and understanding of Christianity and other major world religions and value systems; develop an understanding of what it means to be committed to a religious tradition; be able to reflect on own experiences and develop a personal response to the fundamental questions of life; develop an understanding of religious traditions and to appreciate the cultural differences in Britain today; develop investigative and research skills, and make reasoned judgements about religious issues; have respect for other people’s views, and celebrate the diversity in society.

The religious education curriculum forms an important part of our school’s spiritual, moral, social and cultural teaching. 

The legal position of Religious Education

Our school curriculum for religious education meets the requirements of the 1988 Education Reform Act (ERA). The ERA stipulates that religious education is compulsory for all children, including those in the reception class who are less than five years old although parents have the right to withdraw their child from religious education teachers can refuse to teach religious education, but only after they have given due notice of their intention to the school governors. RE does not seek to convert or urge a particular religion or belief on pupils.

The right of withdrawal from RE

We recognise that parents have the legal right to withdraw their children from Religious Education on the grounds of conscience. We would ask any parent considering this to contact the headteacher to discuss any concerns or questions they may have about the teaching of Religious Education at Kegworth Primary School.