Intent 

At Hatfield Wick School, the Religious Education (RE) curriculum enables students to develop knowledge, understanding and respectful curiosity about a wide range of religions, beliefs and non-religious worldviews, while reflecting on their own values, identity and lived experiences. The curriculum is ambitious, inclusive and carefully designed to support students’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development within a safe, dignified and supportive learning environment. 

Rooted in Hatfield Wick’s trauma-informed, strengths-based CARES framework (Compassion, Autonomy, Respect, Empathy and Support), RE provides structured opportunities for discussion, reflection and enquiry. Students are encouraged to explore belief, meaning, ethics, identity and belonging in ways that affirm individual dignity and promote emotional safety. Teaching recognises that many students have SEND and may have experienced adversity, disruption or marginalisation, and is therefore adaptive, supportive and responsive to need. 

The curriculum actively promotes fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. Through exploration of religious and non-religious perspectives within modern Britain and the wider world, students learn to engage respectfully with difference, challenge prejudice and appreciate diversity.

Implementation 

All teaching within Religious Education is delivered in a balanced, objective and non-partisan manner, in line with statutory requirements. Staff do not promote personal or partisan political, religious or ideological views in the teaching of this or any other subject. Where political, ethical or belief-based issues arise, including those related to religion, belief, law or society, students are offered a balanced presentation of opposing viewpoints. Teaching supports students to develop critical thinking, informed understanding and the confidence to form their own views, while upholding mutual respect, tolerance and democratic values. 

Learning is broadly sequenced to build understanding over time, with key concepts, vocabulary and themes revisited to consolidate knowledge and deepen reflection. Flexibility is built into delivery so that teaching can respond appropriately to students’ questions, interests and emerging issues. Sensitive themes and lived experiences are handled thoughtfully and professionally, ensuring students feel heard, valued and supported while developing the understanding, empathy and reflective skills required to participate positively in a diverse, democratic society. 

Although Hatfield Wick School offers Religious Education within the curriculum, it is not compulsory. Parents can withdraw their child/children from the offer if they choose to. This will need to be delivered in writing to the school. If not, it will be delivered, and is encouraged, as part of our broad, balanced curriculum.