Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day.

Colossians 2:16

New International Version

At Northaw, religious education enables every child to flourish and live life in all its fullness. It helps educate for dignity and respect encouraging all to live well together. Such an approach is offered through a commitment to generous hospitality, being true to our underpinning faith, but with a deep respect for the integrity of other religious traditions (and worldviews) and for the religious freedom of each person. Although the latest version of the Hertfordshire Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education closely informs our pedagogical thinking, we have greater freedom in devising coverage than other maintained schools, and focus on Understanding Christianity, exploring religions and thematic studies. The first lesson each half term allows pupils to reflect on our faith-based values. We are working towards at least one member of staff having religious education qualifications or receiving specialist training, and all staff teaching religious education having access to subject specific professional development. Key questions generated each lesson are recorded on yellow flash cards, placed in the class knowledge jar and used for systematically practising recall. Ofsted’s research review series and subject report series have informed our practice in this area.

Adaptation for Inclusion

We want pupils with SEND to achieve exceptionally well in RE, and have constructed a curriculum that is ambitious and designed to give all pupils, particularly disadvantaged pupils and pupils with SEND, the knowledge and cultural capital they need to succeed in life. The curriculum is successfully adapted to meet the needs of pupils with SEND, developing their knowledge, skills and abilities to apply what they know and can do with increasing fluency and independence.

Teachers can also refer to our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Guidance where classroom difficulties and strategies to support are listed by area of need.