At St Mary's C of E Primary School, Oxted, we follow the Southwark Diocesan Board of Education (SDBE) Religious Education Syllabus. The units of study have been carefully selected to ensure that every child receives a high-quality, progressive and academically rigorous Religious Education curriculum, in line with the Church of England's Statement of Entitlement.

Our RE curriculum enables pupils to develop a deep understanding of Christian beliefs and practices while recognising the richness and diversity of Christianity both locally and globally. As a Church school, we are proud of our strong and supportive relationship with St Mary's Parish Church, Oxted, which plays an important role in the life of our school through collective worship, celebrations and community events. We also value and learn from our links with other Christian denominations and faith communities within the local area, helping pupils to appreciate the diversity of belief and practice.

At the heart of our curriculum are our school values of Confidence, Belonging, Togetherness and Challenge to Contribute. Through Religious Education, pupils are encouraged to develop the confidence to ask meaningful questions, explore beliefs and express their own views respectfully. They develop a strong sense of belonging within our school, church and wider community, whilst learning to value and respect the beliefs and traditions of others. By working together, pupils engage in thoughtful discussion, reflection and enquiry. They are challenged to contribute as compassionate, informed and responsible citizens who can make a positive difference in the world around them.

Teaching and learning in RE engage pupils with biblical texts, theological concepts and ethical questions. The curriculum challenges pupils to explore core religious and philosophical ideas, engage in dialogue with different religions and worldviews, and understand how beliefs, sacred texts, rituals and practices shape individuals, communities and cultures across time and place.

Religious Education holds a significant place within our curriculum, making a valuable contribution to pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development, as well as promoting British Values. Learning experiences are designed to meet the needs of all pupils and develop key skills such as enquiry, analysis, interpretation, critical thinking and reflection. RE provides a safe and inclusive environment in which children can explore questions of meaning and purpose, deepen their understanding of faith and belief, and engage thoughtfully and respectfully with a diverse range of perspectives.