Intent

At Crawley Ridge Junior School, Religion and Philosophy plays a vital role in supporting pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. Our curriculum encourages pupils to develop an open‑minded and respectful understanding of different religions and worldviews, helping them to grow in self‑awareness and develop a strong sense of identity within our diverse society. 

The main aim of our Religion and Philosophy (RaP) curriculum is for pupils to learn about, respect and appreciate the role that major religions and belief systems play at local, national and global levels. Through this learning, pupils are supported in developing informed values, thoughtful reflection and understanding to guide their personal development. 

Implementation 

The Religion and Philosophy curriculum is planned in line with the Surrey Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education, which forms the basis of teaching and learning across the school. 

Pupils are encouraged to explore and make connections between key aspects of religion and belief, including: 

• Beliefs and teachings 

• Sacred texts 

• Places of worship 

• Practices and ways of life 

Where appropriate, pupils also engage with moral, ethical, philosophical and global issues and encounter non‑religious worldviews, such as Humanism. RaP is most often taught through discreet weekly lessons of 40–50 minutes, with meaningful links made to topic work where possible. 

Christianity is studied in every year group, recognising its role as the historically established religion of Great Britain. In addition, pupils study one other major world religion each year: 

• Year 3 – Sikhism, Islam and Thematic units 

• Year 4 – Judaism, Humanism and Thematic units 

• Year 5 – Islam, Judaism and Thematic units 

• Year 6 – Hinduism, Judaism and Thematic units 

No assumptions are made about the religious beliefs or backgrounds of pupils or staff. All religions and belief systems are treated with respect and sensitivity, and opportunities are provided for pupils and families to share experiences where appropriate. Strong links with the local church, St Paul’s, further enrich the curriculum through regular visits and assemblies. 

 

Impact 

Pupils at Crawley Ridge Junior School enjoy exploring a wide range of religions and belief systems. They develop secure knowledge of key beliefs and practices and begin to ask thoughtful, challenging questions about religion, philosophy and the wider world. 

The impact of the Religion and Philosophy curriculum is evident through: 

• Pupils’ respectful attitudes towards different faiths and beliefs 

• Growing confidence in discussion and reflection 

• Use of accurate subject‑specific vocabulary 

Assessment takes place through ongoing formative teacher assessment of discussion, written work and pupil contributions, alongside pupil voice activities. Pupils leave Crawley Ridge with a strong sense of identity, respect for diversity and an understanding of their place in a local and global community. 

Collective Worship 

Crawley Ridge Junior School provides a daily act of collective worship, most commonly in the form of a whole‑school assembly. Collective worship is non‑denominational and broadly Christian in character and is led by the Headteacher, staff, pupils, visiting clergy and other invited speakers. 

Assemblies focus on moral, ethical and spiritual themes and aim to guide, support and inspire pupils in line with the school’s values. 

Parents have the statutory right to withdraw their child from collective worship under the Education Act. Requests should be made in writing to the Headteacher.