Religious Education
At Trinity St Mary’s, Religious Education is at the heart of who we are. As a Church school, we help children grow in faith, understanding, respect and curiosity about the world around them.
“RE is well planned and makes a significant contribution to the Christian character of Trinity St Mary’s.” SIAMS Inspection, 2017
Our RE curriculum gives children the opportunity to explore Christianity, world faiths and world views in a thoughtful, respectful and engaging way. We want every child to understand that faith is not only something people learn about, but something that can shape how people live, love, serve and make a difference.
A Living Connection with Faith
As part of the Southwark Diocesan Board of Education, we believe that Religious Education is much more than an academic subject. It helps children develop a living connection with faith, encouraging them to ask big questions, reflect deeply and consider what it means to live with kindness, courage, and unity.
Through RE, children learn about Christian teachings, Bible stories, prayer, worship and the values that guide our school community. They are also encouraged to respect and understand people of other faiths and beliefs.
One pupil explained:
“We have to understand other religions so that we know how to pay respect.”
Deep Thinkers and Reflective Learners
Our children are encouraged to become deep thinkers. RE lessons provide opportunities for pupils to ask meaningful questions about life, faith, belief, right and wrong, community, justice and belonging.
We use high-quality discussion, reflection, drama, art, writing, stories and carefully chosen books to help children explore these ideas. Our “deep thinker” books and reflective activities give pupils space to record their thoughts, respond creatively and make personal connections with their learning.
Spiritual Development
Spiritual development is woven throughout our RE curriculum and wider school life. Children are given time to pause, reflect, wonder and consider their own beliefs and values.
We support pupils to develop:
- a sense of awe and wonder
- respect for themselves and others
- empathy and compassion
- confidence to ask thoughtful questions
- an understanding of Christian values
- appreciation of different faiths, cultures and communities
What Children Learn
We follow the Southwark Diocesan Board of Education RE syllabus. Children learn about Christianity throughout Reception, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, alongside other principal world religions and world views.
Our learning is built around three important ways of exploring faith:
Believing – exploring religious beliefs, teachings and stories
Thinking – asking big questions and reflecting on the meaning
Living – understanding how faith shapes everyday life and choices
These golden threads help children build knowledge, respect and understanding as they move through the school.
Inspiring Curiosity and Respect
RE at Trinity St Mary’s is taught through high-quality, engaging lessons. Children are inspired to explore their own beliefs and the beliefs of others in a positive and respectful way.
Through discussion, reflection and creative learning, pupils develop the confidence to share ideas, listen to others and think deeply about the world. This helps them grow not only academically, but spiritually, socially and emotionally.
A Curriculum That Reflects Our Christian Character
Our Senior Leadership Team, Faith Council, Faith Group and RE Subject Lead carefully monitor and develop RE across the school. We regularly review our curriculum, learning environments, pupil voice, books and teaching to ensure RE remains a rich and meaningful part of school life.
At Trinity St Mary’s, RE helps children become thoughtful, respectful and compassionate individuals who understand the importance of faith, community and love in action.