"Religion, it must be understood, is not faith. Religion is the story of faith."
Reza Aslan
At Gillas Lane, we follow the Sunderland Agreed Syllabus for RE.
We provide our children with a broad and thoughtful introduction to world faiths and beliefs, as well as world views, including Humanism.
Asking philsophical questions and looking to understand human behaviour and choices (social science) are also key components of RE teaching at Gillas Lane Primary Academy.
RE lessons always provide our children the opportunity to express and share their own world view and beliefs; likewise to be respectful of the views and beliefs of others. RE is a popular subject at Gillas Lane, which children enjoy and look forward to.
We have close connections with the Sunderland Interfaith Forum, members of which visit school each year to speak with the children and enhance our RE teaching and learning. These links also allow us to visit places of worship
RE Progressive Milestones in Disciplinary Learning
Our RE Milestones in Disciplinary Learning contain the disciplinary knowledge needed to understand the threshold concepts.
Our mid term plans specifiy the substantive knowledge that children learn through the disciplinary concepts.
Substantive Knowledge
In RE, building a solid understanding of the content and concepts related to religious and non-religious traditions, enabling pupils to engage with the subject in a meaningful way
Knowledge about
- religious and non-religious traditions
- key concepts of religions such as incarnation, prayer and sacrifice
- texts and artefacts from different religions
Knowledge about elements of art (mediums, materials and techniques)
- drawing, painting & mixed media, sculpture & 3D, craft & design
Disciplinary Knowledge - thinking like a theologist
How a theologist considers:
- making sense of beliefs
- understanding impact
- making connections
Including:
- Investigating
- Reflecting
- Expressing
- Interpreting
- Empathising
- Applying
- Discerning
- Analysing
- Synthesising
- Evaluating
The Importance of RE in the Early Years
Religious Education in the Early Years is vital for helping young children begin to understand the diverse world around them.
Through stories, celebrations, and simple discussions, children explore different beliefs, values, and traditions in a way that nurtures curiosity, respect, and empathy.
RE supports personal development by encouraging children to ask questions, express their thoughts, and appreciate the similarities and differences between themselves and others. It lays the foundation for inclusive thinking and helps build a sense of belonging in a multicultural society.
Take a look at our RE Early Years Link Documents to see what the teaching of RE looks like in our Early Years. You can also see how the skills and knowledge children learn in Early Years supports them with learning in Key Stage 1 and beyond.
RE and SEND
At Gillas Lane, supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities in RE involves creating an inclusive learning environment and adapting teaching methods to meet individual needs. This includes using visual aids, providing differentiated activities, and fostering a positive and supportive classroom atmosphere where all pupils feel valued and respected.
Interfaith Week at Gillas Lane
We have positive links with the Sunderland Interfaith Forum and take part in visits to different religious buildings supported by them.
Members of the forum also visit school to talk to children about their different religions and how they live together in harmony, despite having different beliefs.
