R.E. Policy
The Law
RE is a statutory requirement within the basic curriculum. The basic curriculum is the National Curriculum and RE. ‘RE has equal standing in relation to National Curriculum subjects within a school’s curriculum’ (DFE 1/94 Par.20).
Each local education authority has an agreed syllabus for RE, which applies to all registered pupils in community, foundation and voluntary schools without a religious character. This syllabus is reviewed every five years.
Time Allocation
At Key Stage One the recommended time allocation is 36 hours per year.
Creating a Policy
An RE policy should include the following aspects:
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The aims and objectives of RE within the school
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An outline of the curriculum
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A resources section, including places of worship and visitors
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Meeting the needs of all pupils
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Assessment recording and reporting
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Withdrawals
In addition the following items could be included in the RE Co-ordinator’s file
- Job descriptions
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Schemes of work
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Action plans/development plan
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Budget/capitation
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Resource lists, including places of worship
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Assessment tasks and records
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List of gifted and talented children in RE and strategies to meet their needs
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Transition information
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RE INSET attended by teachers
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RE co-ordinator’s Continuing Professional Development
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RE audits – scrutinising work and monitoring lesson plans, planning
classroom observations
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Information from outside organisations such religious community groups
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Work with parents/governors