Religious Education
At Leopold Primary School, we aim to inspire pupils to develop their understanding of beliefs, values and practices that shape people’s lives. Through our RE curriculum, pupils explore a range of world religions and spiritual traditions, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, and Sikhism, as well as non-religious worldviews. Pupils also learn about the history, culture and local faith communities in Brent.
Our curriculum is designed to promote curiosity, respect, and empathy, helping pupils to reflect on their own beliefs and those of others, and to understand diversity in society.
Intent
The RE curriculum at Leopold Primary School aims to:
- Develop knowledge and understanding of key religious and spiritual concepts, stories, and practices
- Explore moral and ethical questions, encouraging reflection and discussion
- Foster critical thinking and enquiry skills, enabling pupils to ask questions and engage thoughtfully with different beliefs
- Promote respect, tolerance, and appreciation for diversity and cultural heritage, including local faith communities
- Encourage pupils to reflect on their own values, beliefs, and identity
We want pupils to become thoughtful, reflective, and respectful citizens, able to engage with different perspectives and understand the impact of religion and belief on individuals and communities.
Implementation
Our RE curriculum is carefully sequenced to build knowledge, skills, and understanding over time. Learning is adapted to meet the needs of all pupils and reflects the diversity of our school and local community.
Early Years Foundation Stage (Nursery and Reception)
In Nursery and Reception, pupils explore their own experiences, celebrations and stories. They begin to notice similarities and differences in people and families, and are introduced to simple ideas about belief and value through play, storytelling, and discussion.
Key Stage 1 (Years 1–2)
Pupils follow the National Curriculum for RE in Years 1 and 2. They learn about major world religions and festivals, and start to explore what it means to belong to a community. They compare beliefs and practices and begin to develop their own ideas and questions about faith and morality.
Key Stage 2 (Years 3–6)
From Year 3 to Year 6, pupils follow the Opening Worlds curriculum for RE (Key Stage 2). They explore religions and worldviews in greater depth, considering historical, cultural, and contemporary contexts. Pupils examine ethical questions, sacred texts, rituals, and the impact of belief on people’s lives, both locally and globally.
There is a strong emphasis on:
- Building subject knowledge and vocabulary
- Developing enquiry and critical thinking skills
- Making connections between beliefs, values, and daily life
- Reflecting on their own ideas and experiences
- Understanding diversity and fostering mutual respect
Enrichment Opportunities
- Pupils visit local churches, synagogues, and temples in Brent to experience faith communities first-hand
- The school celebrates all major religious festivals through class assemblies, helping pupils understand and respect cultural diversity
Teaching is structured, progressive, and ensures that prior learning is revisited and built upon.
Impact
Through our RE curriculum, pupils gain knowledge, skills, and understanding to engage thoughtfully with religion and belief. They develop respect, empathy, and an appreciation of cultural and spiritual diversity. Pupils are able to discuss religious ideas confidently, make connections, and reflect on their own values.
By the end of Year 6, pupils are well-prepared for secondary education with a secure foundation in RE knowledge, enquiry skills and moral reasoning.
Supporting All Learners
RE is designed to be accessible and inclusive for all pupils. Teaching includes:
- Modelling and scaffolding complex ideas
- Explicit teaching of vocabulary and concepts
- Visual and practical resources to support understanding
- Differentiated activities for varying needs and abilities
- Opportunities for discussion, reflection, and deeper thinking
All pupils, including those with SEND or additional needs, are supported to engage meaningfully with the curriculum.
Supporting Learning at Home
Parents and carers can support RE by:
- Discussing beliefs, values and celebrations at home
- Visiting local places of worship in Brent or nearby areas
- Reading stories and exploring festivals from different religions
- Encouraging reflection and discussion about moral and ethical questions
These activities help pupils develop curiosity, empathy, and a wider understanding of the world around them.