Religious Education
At Forest Academy, Religious Education plays a vital role in promoting spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development. Through an inclusive and enquiry-led curriculum, we aim to foster understanding, respect, and dialogueacross different faiths, beliefs, and world views.
Our RE curriculum is grounded in the Croydon SACRE Agreed Syllabus, including the newly updated 2024 version, which places greater emphasis on world views and incorporates perspectives from Humanism and other non-religious belief systems alongside the six major world faiths.
What Do Children Learn in RE?
Our curriculum explores key faiths and world views including:
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Christianity
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Judaism
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Islam
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Hinduism
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Buddhism
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Sikhism
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Humanism
Children learn about:
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Sacred texts and stories
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Key figures, teachings, and celebrations
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Places of worship and religious practices
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Moral and philosophical questions
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The role of religion and belief in modern life
We also explore themes shared across religions, such as kindness, justice, charity, forgiveness, and peace, encouraging self-reflection and deeper understanding.
Our Approach
RE at Forest Academy is:
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Enquiry-based – encouraging pupils to ask questions, investigate ideas, and explore different beliefs with curiosity and respect
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Inclusive – welcoming and reflective of the diverse community we serve
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Creative and expressive – using storytelling, discussion, drama, art, and writing
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Progressive – building key skills over time, including critical thinking, ethical reasoning, reflection, and respectful debate
We follow the Croydon SACRE’s Attainment Targets:
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AT1: Learning About Religion – gaining knowledge and understanding of beliefs and practices
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AT2: Learning From Religion – reflecting on what can be learned from different faiths and world views to shape personal values and beliefs
Why RE Matters
Religious Education contributes significantly to our pupils’ personal development. It helps them:
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Develop empathy, tolerance, and open-mindedness
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Understand their own beliefs and values
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Engage confidently with a diverse world
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Become responsible, thoughtful members of society
