Religious education provides a positive context within which the diversity of cultures, beliefs and values can be celebrated and explored. In our society today, religion and beliefs have become more visible in public life. Religious education allows us particular opportunities to promote an ethos of respect for others, challenge stereotypes and build an understanding of other cultures and beliefs. This contributes to promoting a positive and inclusive school ethos that champions democratic values and human rights. It provokes challenging questions, encouraging pupils to explore their own beliefs, enabling pupils to develop respect and understanding for others and finally it prompts pupils to consider their rights and responsibilities to society.
At Ben Jonson Primary School, we use the Tower Hamlets agreed syllabus as the basis for our RE curriculum. This syllabus offers a considered path through ideas and issues in six of the world's major religions. Christianity, Islam, Judaism as well as Sikhism, Buddhism and Hinduism are covered here. Non-religious or alternative world views such as Humanism are also included. This wide-ranging extent is particularly important in a London borough such as Tower Hamlets, where the population includes people who observe each and all of the above religions and probably more. Thus this syllabus will equip both our children with the tools and skills to learn, examine and come to understand ideas and practices that shape their lives and that of their families, friends and colleagues.
Religious education is relevant for all children regardless of their own faith or beliefs. Living in and growing up in the 21st century will challenge all young people. It will raise questions of spirituality and identity as well as questions around morality, discrimination and prejudice. Children will learn to appreciate from different communities, to disagree respectfully and to be thoughtful and respectful about their responses.