Religious Education

Curriculum intent

Entitlement

At Heath Lane Academy, every student has the right to explore the rich and diverse religious traditions that shape our local, national, and global communities. The curriculum ensures that all students engage with the beliefs, practices, and moral teachings of major world faiths, particularly Judaism and Christianity in Year 7, creating a foundation for understanding religion’s role in society. This supports the principle of ensuring that no student is left behind in accessing the full breadth of the curriculum. By delivering a curriculum that is inclusive and equitable, we foster respect for different beliefs and encourage students to value diversity in their community. 

Coherence

The RE curriculum at Heath Lane Academy is carefully designed to build knowledge sequentially. Year 7 introduces students to religion in both local and national contexts, grounding their understanding of Judaism and Christianity in their historical and cultural significance. This knowledge develops further in later years as students encounter deeper ethical, philosophical, and theological questions. Connections between beliefs, practices, and ethical issues are made within and across faiths, enabling students to see the links between religion and wider societal issues. 

Mastery

The intent of the RE curriculum is to ensure that students develop a secure understanding of foundational concepts before moving on to more complex topics. In Year 7, this means focusing on the origins and practices of Judaism and Christianity, ensuring students have a clear grasp of their core teachings. This mastery approach includes revisiting prior learning, enabling students to apply their knowledge in broader contexts, such as exploring moral decision-making or the role of religion in society in later years. 

Adaptability

While the core content of the RE curriculum is stable, it is brought to life through adaptation to Heath Lane Academy’s local context. For instance, the focus on religion locally and nationally in Year 7 is an opportunity to explore how religious communities contribute to the fabric of life in rural Leicestershire. Teachers at the school tailor their lessons to the needs and experiences of their students, ensuring relevance and engagement. 

Representation

The Religious Education curriculum at Heath Lane Academy ensures all pupils see themselves in the curriculum, while exploring beliefs and practices beyond their own. By studying the three Abrahamic faiths—Christianity, Islam, and Judaism—students engage with the most widely practiced monotheistic religions globally, focusing on shared values such as justice, kindness, and respect. 

Through topics like equality and matters of life and death, the curriculum highlights the diversity within and between these traditions, representing both historical and modern perspectives. This inclusive approach reflects the school’s values and fosters appreciation of religious and cultural diversity, preparing students to contribute to a respectful, cohesive community. 

Education with character

The RE curriculum at Heath Lane Academy is designed to engage both the head and the heart, encouraging students to reflect on moral and ethical questions that are relevant to their lives. From understanding the role of religion in shaping personal and communal values to exploring what it means to live a good life, the curriculum supports students’ personal growth. This ties into the school’s wider ethos of developing young people of strong character who are thoughtful, compassionate, and resilient. 

Careers linking to the subject

Potential careers 

Prominent careers 

Teaching, Civil Service, National Security, Diplomatic Service, Defense Industry, Human Rights, Law, Politics, Emergency Services: Police, Fire, Ambulance, Coastguard, Human resources. 

RE with English 

Advertising, Publishing, Journalism, Media, Broadcasting, Copywriting. 

RE with Science 

Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary, Medical laboratories, Research & development. 

RE with Maths 

Banking, Business, Management, Retail. 

RE with Geography 

Pilot, Armed Forces, Aid agencies, Charity worker, Travel & Tourism. 

RE with other subjects 

Hospitality, Youth & Social Work, Councilor, Translators, Self-Employment, Office Administrators, Application designer, Social media. 

Key Contact

Sophie Faulks

Subject Lead for PSHE and RE and Teacher of History 

sophie.faulks@heathlaneacademy.org.uk  

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