Religious Education
Religious Education (RE) Curriculum Statement
At Nicol Mere, Religious Education plays a vital role in nurturing our children’s spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development. We are committed to fostering tolerance, respect, and curiosity through high-quality RE provision that explores a broad range of religious and non-religious worldviews.
We believe it is essential that all children develop a sound understanding of different beliefs and traditions so they can engage thoughtfully with the diverse society of modern Britain. Our curriculum helps children reflect on their own values, appreciate the beliefs of others, and grow into compassionate, open-minded individuals.
Intent
Our Religious Education curriculum is designed to:
- Set high expectations in RE across all year groups
- Provide a broad and balanced curriculum, progressive in knowledge, skills, and vocabulary
- Encourage tolerance, respect, and understanding of diverse perspectives
- Support children in reflecting on their own beliefs and appreciating the awe and wonder of the world
- Offer engaging opportunities and experiences, both in and beyond the classroom
- Promote our school values and British Values
- Prepare pupils for the next steps in their educational and personal journeys
Implementation
At Nicol Mere, we follow the locally agreed Wigan RE Syllabus, designed by subject specialists to support all children—regardless of background or ability—through a sequence of carefully structured lessons.
RE is delivered in a way that builds knowledge and values over time, encouraging pupils to ask questions, explore their own ideas, and respect those of others. Lessons include access to:
- Religious artefacts and texts, including the Bible and Qur’an
- Guest speakers, such as Imams and local preachers
- Visits to places of worship across faiths
- Stories, parables, images, music, and video resources
- Debate and discussion around philosophical and moral questions
- Opportunities for quiet reflection and personal enquiry
Pupils are encouraged to explore key beliefs and practices, make comparisons across religions, and articulate their understanding using accurate religious vocabulary. Lessons are adapted to meet the needs of all learners, with additional adults and tailored activities supporting lower-attaining pupils.
In addition to weekly RE lessons, children take part in:
- Collective Worship once a week
- Monthly visits from Christian speakers (e.g., Mr J. Heyes)
- Assemblies that highlight religious festivals throughout the year
- Whole-school services at Christmas and Easter
Each year, we also participate in Inter Faith Week, which gives children the chance to explore diversity, challenge stereotypes, and reflect on how we live together in a multi-faith society.
Impact
The impact of our RE curriculum is measured by pupils’:
- Confidence and competence in discussing religious and moral topics
- Reflective and respectful attitudes toward different beliefs
- Knowledge of world religions, traditions, and philosophies
- Skills of enquiry, analysis, and interpretation
- Ability to form thoughtful and informed views about meaning, belief, and values
Children’s learning is assessed through ongoing teacher assessment, end-of-unit knowledge checks, and pupil questionnaires that provide valuable insight into how pupils are engaging with RE.
Ultimately, pupils leave Nicol Mere with a well-rounded understanding of the diverse world they live in—ready to thrive in a society shaped by multiple beliefs, cultures, and values.