The impact of our open-enquiry approach has been nothing but positive. The children at Emsworth Primary School enjoy learning about other religions and why people choose, or choose not to follow a religion; they have enjoyed making links between their own lives and those of others in their community and in the wider world; they have developed an understanding of other people’s cultures and ways of life. We truly believe that our forward-thinking approach has given opportunities for our pupils to:

• Value themselves and others, including the role of the family and the community in religious belief and activity.
• Celebrate diversity in society through understanding similarities and differences.
• Help improve and acknowledge the recognition of the changing nature of society, religious practice and expression.
• Allow them to contemplate the influence of religion in the local, national and global community.
• Help promote a sustainable development of the earth and a willingness to participate and play their part.

We encourage our pupils to ask questions about the world and to reflect on their own beliefs, values and experiences. We include and promote fundamental human values, ensuring that children are aware of their rights and responsibilities as UK citizens. Our curriculum is designed to encourage creativity, imagination, enquiry, debate, discussion and independence.

When implementing our teaching and principles we follow the Hampshire RE scheme Living Difference VI, which was released in November 2021, and we use resources from NATRE and RE Today to supplement and enhance this.

From Early Years through to Year 6 we cover a variety of topics and concepts within the following religions: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism and Humanism.

There are no presumptions made as to the religious backgrounds, beliefs and values of the children and the staff and all our lessons follow a 'most (religious groups believe that...). We value the religious background of all members of the school community and hope that this will encourage individuals to share their own experiences with others freely. All religions and their communities are treated with respect and sensitivity.

It is our intention to adhere to The Education Act of 1996 which requires that all children across Foundation, Key Stage 1 and 2 should be taught RE. It is a parent's right to withdraw their child from any part of RE if they so wish - please contact the school if you wish to discuss this.