RE Curriculum at St Robert Bellarmine

To Know You More Clearly 

“We are God’s work of art.”

Our school has proudly introduced the RED Religious Education Programme, “To Know You More Clearly” — a thoughtfully designed curriculum that helps children develop a deep understanding of faith, values, and the world around them. Rooted in the teachings of Christ, this programme invites pupils to explore big questions about life, purpose, and belief in an engaging and age-appropriate way.

Through stories, scripture, discussions, role play, and creative activities, pupils are encouraged to think critically, reflect meaningfully, and share their own ideas. The programme celebrates diversity by exploring a range of Christian teachings alongside learning about other faiths and worldviews, helping children to appreciate different perspectives and develop respect for others.

What sets “To Know You More Clearly” apart is its focus on personal spiritual growth. Children are guided to deepen their relationship with God and are given opportunities to connect scripture with their own experiences and choices. Lessons are designed to inspire curiosity, empathy, and awe, allowing pupils to see the relevance of faith in their daily lives.

Scripture is at the heart of every Branch of the programme, shaping knowledge, understanding, skills, compassion, and a sense of wonder across the curriculum. By weaving faith into real-life contexts, the programme nurtures not only academic development but also emotional well-being, moral awareness, and spiritual formation.

At its core, the RED RE programme aims to equip children with the values and understanding they need to grow into kind, thoughtful, and confident individuals — ready to contribute positively to their community and the wider world.

The Ways of Knowing

The Ways of Knowing describe the key skills and understanding that pupils develop as they progress through the Religious Education curriculum. These ways support children in thinking deeply, reflecting meaningfully, and living out their learning.

Understand 📖

Pupils learn to understand the meaning of sacred texts, religious beliefs, important rites, and the lives of individuals and communities shaped by these traditions. This builds a solid foundation of knowledge and comprehension to help them explore faith more deeply.

Discern 🕊️

Pupils develop the ability to discern wisely when faced with different interpretations of texts, beliefs, practices, and ways of life. They learn to think critically, weigh up ideas, and arrive at justified conclusions about truth, goodness, and beauty.

Respond ❤️

Pupils are encouraged to respond personally and thoughtfully to what they have learned. They reflect on how this knowledge relates to their own lives and consider how it may inspire actions, choices, and relationships in the world around them.

Knowledge Lenses

The Knowledge Lenses outline the key areas of understanding that pupils develop as they progress through the Religious Education curriculum. They are called “lenses” because they represent different perspectives through which children explore and understand their faith and the world around them.

Hear 👂

Pupils explore the Word of God through Sacred Scripture and Divine Revelation. They learn how God speaks to us, how His message has been passed down, and how people respond to His invitation.

Believe ✝️

This lens focuses on the Creed and the central teachings of the Church. Pupils learn about the Trinity, the Incarnation, the Holy Spirit, the communion of saints, and the special role of Mary in the story of salvation.

Celebrate 🙏

Pupils discover how the Church celebrates faith through prayer, liturgy, and the sacraments. They learn about the Eucharist, the sacraments of initiation, healing, and service, as well as other forms of worship and sacramentals that deepen our connection with God.

Live 🌿

This lens explores how faith influences the way we live and act in the world. Pupils learn about Catholic Social Teaching, human dignity, freedom, conscience, virtue, and how God’s grace guides us to make loving and just choices.

Dialogue 🤝

Pupils are introduced to the Church’s teaching on its relationship with other Christian traditions, religions, and worldviews. This lens encourages respect, understanding, and collaboration, helping children to live faithfully in a diverse world.

Encounter 🌍

Pupils engage in a discrete study of other faiths and worldviews to better understand different cultures and beliefs. This lens nurtures love for our neighbour, mutual respect, and the ability to live peacefully with difference.