Intent
At East Acton, we believe Religious Education plays a vital role in helping pupils understand the diverse beliefs, values and worldviews that shape our community and the wider world. As a Rights Respecting School, we promote respect, tolerance and freedom of belief, particularly for those from minority backgrounds (Articles 2, 12, 14, 29, 30).

Our curriculum reflects the rich diversity of our school community and begins with pupils’ own experiences, before broadening to explore a wide range of religious and non-religious perspectives. We aim to develop pupils’ religious literacy, enabling them to understand key beliefs, practices and traditions while recognising shared themes such as belonging, identity and morality.

Through RE, pupils are encouraged to ask meaningful questions, express their views and engage in respectful dialogue (Article 13). They reflect on their own beliefs while developing an understanding of others, preparing them to live positively in a diverse and multicultural society.

Implementation

RE is taught using the Ealing Agreed Syllabus Religion and Worldviews: Belonging, behaving and believing. The curriculum is structured around key enquiry questions, which provide purpose and direction for learning.

An enquiry-based approach underpins teaching and learning:

• Each unit begins with a key question
• Pupils generate sub-questions based on prior knowledge and stimulus materials
• Artefacts, images and texts are explored to deepen understanding
• Pupils engage in discussion, reflection and respectful debate
• Learning is applied to answer the key enquiry question

Pupils study a range of religious traditions alongside non-religious worldviews, developing an understanding of both differences and shared values. They explore ethical issues and consider how beliefs influence actions and decision-making in everyday life.

Teaching is inclusive and reflective, providing opportunities for pupils to express their own views and listen to others (Articles 12, 13). Pupils are supported to discuss and debate sensitively, developing the ability to disagree respectfully and with understanding.

British values such as tolerance and mutual respect are embedded throughout, alongside opportunities for pupils to explore identity, belonging and the importance of respecting minority perspectives (Articles 2, 30).

Impact

Our RE curriculum develops thoughtful, respectful and informed learners who are able to engage with a wide range of beliefs and perspectives. Pupils gain a strong understanding of religious and non-religious worldviews and how these shape individuals and communities.

Children make meaningful connections between their own lives and those of others, developing empathy, respect and an appreciation of diversity, including minority faiths and beliefs (Articles 2, 14, 30). They are able to express their views clearly and engage in balanced discussions, demonstrating the ability to listen and respond thoughtfully (Articles 12, 13).

By the end of KS2, pupils have developed the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to navigate a diverse society with confidence and respect. They leave East Acton with a strong foundation in tolerance, reflection and global citizenship, prepared for the next stage of their education and life beyond school (Article 29).