The place of RE in the lives of children and young people keeps changing, but some things are constant. Every person, growing up, finds their own values and beliefs by which to live. The tensions of our differences are creative and fascinating for most of us, but occasionally they cause conflict. The place of religion in the modern world is controversial and challenging, but does not go away. For these (among many) reasons it is vital for our schools to help children and young people to develop their own ideas and ways of living, to learn to be reasonable about belief and religions and to learn to be respectful to those who see the world differently. If everyone finds their own path in life, then the great religions of the world might be seen as guide books. RE introduces pupils to the influences of faiths and beliefs over thousands of years and for billions of people. That’s a part of a good education for the twenty-first century. (Bedfordshire SACRE Syllabus, 2018)

At Foxdell Primary School we teach Religious Education (RE) through the Agreed Bedfordshire SACRE Syllabus. RE is a fundamental element of a broad and balanced curriculum and we encourage our children to develop as individuals and members of society by respecting the religious, spiritual and moral values of others. This is important Foxdell as we are a multi- cultural community with varied religious beliefs.

We believe that it is important for all our pupils to learn from and about religion, so that they can understand the world around them. We intend to fulfil this by providing a variety of rich learning opportunities, which will engage, inspire and encourage them to develop their knowledge and understanding of the principal religions represented in Great Britain today.

Knowledge of a range of religions will enable the children to appreciate the way that religious beliefs shape life and behaviour, develop the ability to make reasoned and informed judgements about religious and moral issues and enhance their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. In addition, it will aid the development of a deeper awareness and acceptance of beliefs, values, traditions and cultures of individuals within our societies and communities, particularly our school community. 

We value the diverse religious background of all members of the school community and encourage individuals to share their own experiences with others freely. All religions and their communities are treated with respect and sensitivity and we value the links, which are, and can be made between home, school, and a faith community.

We promote teaching in Religious Education that stresses open enquiry and first-hand experiences wherever possible for both staff and children. Children are encouraged to ask questions as part of their learning. This gives the teacher a greater insight in to children’s thinking as well as providing ongoing assessment opportunities.

RE is taught creatively in a in a variety of ways in order for children to understand and respect the beliefs of different religions. This includes stories, role play, visits to places of religious worship and welcoming visitors from different religions to come into school and work with the children. We believe that implementing RE in this manner helps promote respect and open-mindedness towards others with different beliefs and faiths within the school community and prepares the children for the wider world.

Foxdell Primary School has been exempted from the requirement to hold collective
worship that is wholly or mainly of a broadly Christian character. 

To celebrate Diwali, we had a Rangoli Design Competition. Look at our fantastic winning designs!