RE

The PKC Religious Education (RE) curriculum is knowledge-rich. This means the knowledge pupils acquire is clearly defined, carefully sequenced, and builds securely over time. It is designed to develop pupils’ understanding of religious and non-religious worldviews through three strands of knowledge: substantive knowledge, disciplinary knowledge, and personal knowledge.

• Substantive knowledge focuses on core concepts, beliefs and practices from six major world religions and selected non-religious perspectives—such as monotheism, polytheism, karma, and Dharma. These are revisited and deepened as pupils progress through the curriculum.
• Disciplinary knowledge teaches pupils how to study religion. Pupils learn how beliefs are interpreted, where knowledge comes from (such as sacred texts or religious leaders), and how to examine different views with care and accuracy.
• Personal knowledge invites pupils to reflect on their own beliefs and values in relation to what they learn. This encourages empathy, respectful dialogue, and the confidence to express personal perspectives.

The curriculum is structured to be a progression model. Each year begins and ends with multifaith units (e.g. places of worship, belonging, words of wisdom), with in-depth study of Christianity and one other world religion in between. This approach ensures both breadth and depth, while supporting pupils in recognising similarities and differences across belief systems.

Key concepts such as Dharma, forgiveness, and community are explored across religions, helping pupils make meaningful connections. Throughout the curriculum pupils engage in discussion and respectful debate, building on their knowledge to express reasoned opinions and listen to those of others.

We provide a subject rationale explaining the thinking behind the design of the curriculum, alongside a curriculum map showing the sequence of units and coverage. Each unit is supported by clearly structured planning including carefully designed tasks. Subject knowledge guidance and links to other areas of the PKC curriculum are clearly signposted, helping subject leaders lead with clarity and confidence.

The PKC RE curriculum meets the statutory requirements for Religious Education in England and aligns with the expectations of locally agreed syllabuses. It provides pupils with a secure foundation for future study by equipping them with accurate knowledge, respectful understanding, and the confidence to engage with complex worldviews, both their own and those of others.