Religious Education
"The purpose of all religious traditions is to create temples of goodness and compassion inside our hearts.”
Dalai Lama
At Thornton Primary School, we believe that Religious Education plays an important role in helping children understand themselves, their communities and the diverse world in which they live. We follow the Birmingham Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education, which helps children develop an understanding of the beliefs, traditions and values that shape the world around them.
For junior-aged children, Religious Education is about exploring big questions, developing curiosity and learning to respect different viewpoints. Through engaging lessons, stories, discussions and enquiry-based activities, children are encouraged to think deeply, ask questions and share their own ideas in a safe and supportive environment.
Children learn about a range of faiths and worldviews, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism and Judaism. As they progress through the school, they develop a growing understanding of how beliefs can influence people's lives, celebrations, communities and choices.
We are proud of the rich diversity within Birmingham and believe that Religious Education helps children develop empathy, respect and an appreciation of different cultures and traditions. Learning about faiths and worldviews encourages pupils to recognise both the things that make us unique and the values we share.
Religious Education is closely linked to our school values:
- Equality – fostering understanding, inclusion and respect for people of all faiths, beliefs and backgrounds.
- Aspiration – encouraging children to broaden their understanding of the world and strive to become thoughtful, informed citizens.
- Resilience – supporting pupils to engage with challenging questions, reflect on different viewpoints and develop their own beliefs and opinions.
- Teamwork – promoting discussion, collaboration and respectful dialogue with others.
- Honesty – enabling children to express their thoughts and beliefs openly, whilst listening respectfully to the views of others.
As a Gold Rights Respecting School, we value the important role Religious Education plays in helping children become thoughtful, respectful and informed members of society. Through visits, visitors and meaningful learning experiences, children gain a deeper understanding of the diverse communities around them and are encouraged to approach differences with kindness, confidence and respect.
By the time children leave Thornton Primary School, we want them to have a secure understanding of different religions and worldviews, an appreciation of diversity, and the confidence to discuss beliefs and values with curiosity, respect and integrity. These experiences help prepare them to become active, responsible citizens who contribute positively to a diverse and inclusive society.
Parental Right to Withdraw from Religious Education
At our school, Religious Education is taught in accordance with the Birmingham Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education, which reflects the rich diversity of Birmingham and promotes understanding, respect and appreciation of different faiths and worldviews.
We believe that Religious Education makes an important contribution to children's personal development by encouraging curiosity, reflection and respect for others. Through learning about a range of religions and beliefs, pupils develop a deeper understanding of the communities in which they live and the wider world around them.
Parents and carers have the legal right to withdraw their child, either fully or partly, from Religious Education lessons. If you are considering this option, we encourage you to speak with the Headteacher so that we can explain the aims and content of our Religious Education curriculum and answer any questions you may have. Many parents find that the Birmingham Agreed Syllabus focuses on learning about and understanding different beliefs rather than promoting any particular faith.
The Birmingham Agreed Syllabus recognises and respects the legal right of parents to withdraw their child from Religious Education, while encouraging schools and families to work together to help children develop understanding, respect and appreciation for the diverse communities that make up Birmingham and modern Britain.