At St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, we believe that the aim of teaching quality Religious Education is to open pupils up to the divine mystery of God’s work. We endeavour to develop religiously literate children who are able to think spiritually, ethically and theologically. Our pupils are strongly encouraged to look at the world around them with a deep sense of awe and wonder as it is God’s wonderful creation. In addition, our children are taught to value and respect one another as we are all created in the image and likeness of God.
Religious Education in the curriculum
At St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School we are beginning our journey to follow the new Religious Education Directory (RED) and its program “To Know You More Clearly”. It is an innovative and enriching new Religious Education program that seeks to deepen the spiritual journey of students by fostering a profound understanding of Catholic teachings and values.
This program goes beyond the traditional curriculum, encouraging students to explore their faith through a lens of curiosity and introspection. Through engaging lessons, thoughtful reflections, and interactive activities, “To Know You More Clearly” creates a dynamic learning environment that encourages students to connect with their spirituality on a personal level. Teachers are encouraged to be as creative as possible in their lesson planning and to employ a range of teaching styles. The RED (Religious Education Directory), is Scripture based. It follows the story of Jesus, and it is an invitation to Know Him more clearly. It allows children to get to know Him, to journey with Him through His life, death and resurrection. In addition teachers include teaching and connections with Prayer and Worship, Other Faiths, and “Rooted in Love”, the Diocese of Westminster social teaching program.
The RED is taught through six curriculum branches: Creation and Covenant; Prophecy and Promise; Galilee to Jerusalem; Desert to Garden; To the Ends of the Earth; Dialogue and Encounter. In each lesson, children explore their learning through four knowledge lenses: Hear/Word; Believe/Creed; Celebrate/Liturgy; Live/Life.
Other Faiths
At St. Joseph’s, the children learn about other world religions such as Islam and Judaism. In the new RED, children enter into dialogue about other faiths in their sixth branch of the curriculum – Dialogue and Encounter.
Judaism Workshop with Ruth Jampal from Judaism for Schools
The children had a wonderful day with Ruth learning about many different aspects of Judaism. From living the faith in everyday life to its traditions, symbols, artefacts and even learning Hebrew! Ruth was extremely engaging and the children had a fabulous day. Take a look at some of the photographs below to see the amazing activities the children were involved in.
