At Burnt Oak Junior School, we believe Religious Education (RE) provides children with opportunities to explore different beliefs, cultures and traditions whilst developing an understanding and appreciation of the diverse world in which we live.

Our RE curriculum encourages children to ask questions, reflect on their own values and consider the beliefs and experiences of others. Through discussion, enquiry and exploration, children develop empathy, respect and an understanding of how religion and world-views influence people's lives.

We want every child to become a thoughtful, respectful and open-minded individual. RE supports our inclusive school ethos, encouraging children to celebrate differences, challenge stereotypes and recognise the importance of mutual understanding.

Our Religious Education Curriculum – Bexley Agreed Syllabus

At Burnt Oak Junior School, we follow the 2026 Bexley Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education, which provides a carefully planned and progressive approach to developing children's knowledge and understanding of religious and non-religious world-views.

Throughout Years 3 to 6, children build on their previous learning, exploring Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Judaism and Buddhism, alongside non-religious perspectives.

Our RE curriculum encourages children to develop their understanding through three key areas:

• Believing – exploring religious beliefs, teachings and important questions about life, meaning and purpose.

• Expressing – understanding how people express their beliefs and identities through worship, celebrations, symbols and traditions.

• Living – investigating how religious beliefs and values influence people's choices, actions and everyday lives.

Children are encouraged to use appropriate religious vocabulary, ask thoughtful questions and explain their ideas whilst listening respectfully to different viewpoints.

Through exploring themes such as sacred texts, worship, festivals, morality and belonging, children develop a deeper understanding of the similarities and differences between religions and world-views.

Religious Education Beyond the Classroom

We believe that Religious Education provides valuable opportunities for children to make connections between their learning and the wider world.

At Burnt Oak Junior School, children explore religious traditions, celebrations and festivals throughout the year, helping them develop an appreciation of the beliefs and cultures represented within our school community and beyond.

Through discussion, reflection and opportunities to explore different perspectives, children learn to approach important questions with curiosity, sensitivity and respect.

RE also provides meaningful links with other curriculum subjects, including history, geography, art and PSHE, helping children develop a broader understanding of different communities and traditions.

Right of Withdrawal

Religious Education forms part of the curriculum at Burnt Oak Junior School. However, parents and carers have the legal right to withdraw their child from all or part of RE lessons.

Parents and carers who wish to discuss withdrawal from Religious Education or collective worship are encouraged to contact the Headteacher to discuss their request and the arrangements that would need to be made.

Our aim is for children to leave Burnt Oak Junior School as knowledgeable, thoughtful and respectful individuals who appreciate diversity, understand different beliefs and values, and are well-prepared to contribute positively to life in modern Britain.