Religious Education

At Trevelyan we follow the Berkshire Agreed Syllabus, with its stated aims of promoting "the spiritual, cultural, mental and physical development of pupils", and of reflecting "the fact that the religious traditions in Great Britain are in the main Christian, whilst taking account of teachings and practices of other principal religions represented in Great Britain".

In Years 5 and 6 there is a general introduction to the concept of religion. This gives an opportunity to hear and discuss a variety of stories from Christianity and from other religions, relating the stories to everyday situations. A selection of religious festivals are also studied as well as looking at various places of worship. The symbolism of religion, the place of prayer and the activities of religious communities form other important themes.

In Years 7 and 8 we begin to encourage a more personal response to the issues raised by the concepts of religion and belief. We continue to look at the major world religions and at ways in which their customs, rules, religious scriptures and personalities reflect the idea of Belief in Action.

The emphasis is very much on groupwork and discussions, enabling pupils to become more confident in expressing their thoughts and views in an area that relates to our heritage but which also has a bearing on events of the present and the future.

Through the work of the R.E. department, through regular Assemblies and acts of worship, and also through the encouragement of a personal and social education programme in form periods, the school aims to improve the moral and social development of all its pupils.

National Curriculum for RE

Although not a National Curriculum subject, pupils must study religious education (RE). The content of the subject is decided locally but must remain within the law.