Religious Education

Vision, Aims and Philosophy

I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else. C.S. Lewis

We believe RE is a life enriching experience that will help to shape all aspects of pupil’s lives and we strive to communicate and share this passion with our pupils. Our curriculum fosters and develops an interest in religion and the effects of religion on believers and society as a whole. We do this through the provision of lessons that are interesting, engaging and challenging whilst demonstrating that no matter what talent a person has, everyone has a God-given vocation.

We aim to provide opportunities and an environment where pupils are able to grow in their own personal faith, whatever it may be, and to develop considered personal responses to religious, spiritual and moral issues that affect them in everyday life. We are mindful of the wider spiritual context of our subject matter and the unique place this has within our school community. Our school motto “Love Serve and Do The Best That Is Possible” permeates our approach to learning in RE.

Promoting the development of learning talents, lies at the heart of our approach to learning in RE.  Furthermore we incorporate the ‘Gifts We Grow’ in RE lessons and they underpin the work that pupils do to ensure that they develop as a whole person and become aware of their place in the wider world and as part of the Body of Christ on Earth. We embed the concept that the Learning Talents and Gifts We Grow foster and encourage lifelong learners and enable us to become the best people we can be.

Providing pupils with the skills necessary to discuss important issues in a focused and intelligent way in an essential feature of learning in RE. Pupils are taught from an early stage to support all their views with evidence and examples, and to understand and appreciate the opposing views of others.  In RE we can challenge students’ pre-conceived ideas and prejudices at many points during their studies. We encourage a Christian response to situations using language that is temperate and which is based on the belief that forgiveness and reconciliation are at the heart of everything we do. We stress in our teaching the Gospel values and in particular, Jesus’ teaching ‘to love your neighbor as yourself.’ Mark 12:31.

After having studied RE at St Paul’s we believe that pupils will have a developed understanding of the fundamentals of the Catholic faith and the relevance of this in the world today. They will be equipped with an understanding of the necessary religious language, a sound knowledge of key church teachings and sources of wisdom and authority.  Pupils will be competent in the ability to explain, evaluate and analyse views and beliefs in a respectful manner. Pupils will have an awareness of the impact that faith has in the wider world and whilst being sensitive to the views of others, will have been encouraged to develop their own faith and beliefs.

RE Curriculum

You can see an overview of the RE curriculum here. You can see an overview of A level RE here.

RISE Core RE

Spiritual Reflections

Chapel and spiritual reflections in RE lessons provide pupils with meaningful moments to pause, reflect, and deepen their faith in a way that connects them personally to God. By aligning these reflections with the liturgical calendar, such as Advent, Lent, and Easter, pupils are invited to journey through the key seasons of the Christian faith in a structured and spiritually enriching way. This rhythm helps them understand the significance of each period and apply its messages to their own lives. Engaging reflections—through prayer, scripture, music, or creative activities—encourage pupils to explore their beliefs in a supportive environment, making space for personal growth and a deeper connection with God. This integration of worship and learning nurtures both spiritual and moral development, which is a vital part of a holistic education.

Trips

When pupils visit Coventry Cathedral, they are immersed in a powerful atmosphere of reconciliation and forgiveness. The ruins of the old cathedral, destroyed during World War II, stand beside the modern building as a symbol of resilience and peace. During their visit, pupils learn how the cathedral chose not to seek revenge but instead embraced a message of healing, famously inscribing “Father Forgive” on the altar of the ruins. Through guided reflections and interactive exhibits, pupils are encouraged to consider the importance of forgiveness in their own lives and communities, gaining a deeper understanding of how reconciliation can build hope even in the face of destruction.

Visiting the Sikh Gurdwara in Leadenhall, as a student, offers a valuable opportunity to experience firsthand how Sikhs worship and live out their faith. From observing the prayer services and the reading of the Guru Granth Sahib to sharing food in the langar hall, students gain insight into the core Sikh values of equality, service, and community. Seeing where Sikhs worship helps bring classroom learning to life, making the beliefs and practices more meaningful and real. Studying other religions in this way encourages respect, understanding, and tolerance, helping students appreciate the diversity of faiths in the world and the importance of living peacefully alongside others.