At St Nicholas, Religious Education helps children explore big questions about life, belief and belonging. Our curriculum is rooted in the Oxfordshire Agreed Syllabus and shaped by the Oxford Diocesan Scheme of Work, with Christianity taught as a living and diverse faith. Alongside this, children learn about other major world religions and non-religious worldviews, always with respect for the beliefs and backgrounds of our school community.

RE is taught weekly as a dedicated subject. In Nursery and Reception, children begin to explore ideas that support the Early Learning Goals, with content tailored to their experiences. In Key Stage 1, pupils explore key questions through Christianity and Judaism. Non-religious perspectives are included where appropriate, helping children understand that people see the world in different ways.

Children encounter stories, artefacts, celebrations and practices from different traditions. They learn that beliefs are expressed in many ways and begin to use specialist vocabulary to talk about what matters to people. Lessons encourage children to ask thoughtful questions, reflect on their own feelings and experiences, and develop a sense of wonder about the world.

The curriculum is built around three strands:

• Beliefs and questions – exploring core beliefs, symbols and teachings
• Community and identity – understanding how beliefs are lived and expressed
• Reality and truth – thinking about how people decide what is true, good or right

Children’s learning is recorded in whole-class floorbooks, where their reflections, questions and shared thinking are captured. These books celebrate the diversity of belief and experience within our school and give children a space to express themselves with empathy and curiosity.

RE at St Nicholas is supported by regular collective worship, which offers children time to pause, reflect and come together as a community. These moments help children consider values, think about the ows, wows and nows of spirituality, celebrate difference and think deeply about their place in the world. Worship is inclusive and invitational, rooted in our Christian vision and open to all.

We are also fortunate to receive regular support from Reverend Sarah, Team Rector for the Wallingford Team Ministry, who helps enrich our RE and worship through storytelling, discussion, hymns and shared reflection. Her visits help children connect their learning to real-life faith and deepen their understanding of Christian belief and practice.