Bridgewater School intends for all pupils to develop knowledge and understanding of sources of wisdom and their impact (A), whilst also exploring personal and critical responses (B). We adopt the “worldview approach” through discussions in the classroom where we encourage children to consider that everyone has their own worldview and different aspects of life impact these views for other people and themselves. Our aim is for all children to be able to reflect on their own views whilst developing positive attitudes towards people of different faiths, beliefs and ways of living.  

R.E. should be an open exploration of what people believe, their way of life and the impact of beliefs, values and ways of living in local, national and global communities. It should engage pupils in the process of understanding what others believe, what is important to them, how they live their lives and what influences them. In doing this they should also be able to reflect on their own beliefs and values and their main influences.

Sources of wisdom from religions and worldviews and their impact 

Pupils should: 

•...know, understand and explore the significance and impact of sacred texts, other sources of wisdom and ways of expressing meaning

•...express ideas and insights about the nature of beliefs, values and practices and their impact on the identity of individuals and communities locally, nationally and globally 

•...recognise and explore similarities and differences which exist within and between religious and non-religious worldviews

Personal and critical responses to religion and worldviews

Pupils should: 

•...express with increasing discernment their personal reflections, critical responses and connections to faith and belief enquiring into and responding to spiritual, philosophical, moral and ethical issues 

•...engage with the questions and responses offered by religions and worldviews concerning  ultimate questions and human responsibility 

•...develop the skills required to engage with others in dialogue and to cooperate in society with respect and compassion