Why is Religious Education important in Catholic Schools?
Religious Education is the “core of the core curriculum” in a Catholic school (Pope St John Paul II). Placing RE at the core of the curriculum in Catholic schools helps our school to fulfil its mission to educate the whole person in discerning the meaning of their existence, since “Religious Education is concerned not only with intellectual knowledge but also includes emotional and affective learning.
At Botwell House, Religious Education (RE) is at the heart of everything we do. It is not only a subject that children study, but a lived experience that helps them grow in faith, understanding, and respect for others.
We follow the Catholic Schools Religious Education Directory (RED), which is the national curriculum for RE in Catholic schools across England and Wales.
This curriculum helps children to:
- develop a deep understanding of the Catholic faith
- explore the teachings of Jesus and the Church
- reflect on how faith shapes the way we live our lives
- grow spiritually, morally and personally
Since 2024, we have been carefully phasing in this new curriculum, beginning with our youngest children in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). We have since extended it into the Years 1-6, ensuring that teaching is thoughtful, well-planned and meaningful for every child.
We are pleased to share that all year groups are now learning through the new Religious Education Directory curriculum.
To see what your child is learning in RE this half term, please click here.