The principal aim of RE at Brettenham is to engage pupils in systematic enquiry into significant human questions which religion and worldviews address, so that they can develop the understanding and skills needed to appreciate and appraise varied responses to these questions, as well as develop responses of their own.

At Brettenham the policy for R.E. is based on the Enfield SACRE Agreed Syllabus, which aims to give children knowledge of Christianity and other world faiths.

Children begin:

• To develop an understanding of the beliefs, practices and insights of religious faiths
• To appreciate the place of religion in human life, and the important way it affects the actions and attitudes of people.
• To become aware of the cultural, religious and spiritual heritage of all members of the community.
• To develop a respect for the rights of others to hold beliefs different to their own.
• To safeguard the confidence of a child in his or her own faith.

While education policy changes, the legal requirement for RE for all registered pupils remains unchanged. RE is an entitlement for all pupils, unless they have been withdrawn by their parents from some or all of the RE curriculum.

Right of withdrawal

RE is inclusive and wide-ranging, exploring a range of religious and non-religious worldviews. However, in the UK, parents still have the right to withdraw their children from RE on the grounds that they wish to provide their own religious education. (School Standards and Framework Act 1998 S71 (3)). This will be the parents’ responsibility. Parents have a right of withdrawal from all of RE or part of RE. If you are considering withdrawal, we would encourage you to contact the head teacher or deputy headteacher to arrange a discussion.