At Egerton, we follow the Cheshire East Religions and Worldviews Syllabus, which guides students in exploring and understanding a variety of religious beliefs and worldviews from local, national, and global perspectives. Through this curriculum, children engage with fundamental life questions, explore a wide range of viewpoints, and develop respect for diverse beliefs. They are encouraged to reflect on the wisdom found in different religious and philosophical traditions, form their own insights, and express their views respectfully.
Religious and personal beliefs play a key role in shaping each individual’s identity. As a non-faith school, we aim to explain the beliefs behind various religions as outlined in the Cheshire East scheme of work. Our goal is not to persuade children to follow any particular religion but to help them understand the beliefs of others, empowering them to make their own informed decisions as they grow older. This approach fosters a greater awareness and acceptance of diverse lifestyles, choices, and beliefs, giving students a deeper understanding of how many of the festivals celebrated in our multicultural society have evolved.
From Reception to Year 6, all children learn about Christianity, which may be explored through assemblies led by members of the Knutsford churches, interactive sessions like Open the Book, and class lessons. Children also explore other religions, such as Islam, Sikhism, and Buddhism, providing them with a broader understanding of global belief systems. The religions and worldviews explored may vary depending on the interests of the cohort, and children may also learn about other faiths as opportunities arise.
Lessons are enriched through role-play, visits and hands-on experiences with religious artefacts, allowing children to connect with the subject in a meaningful and engaging way.
Reception (Early Years)
The children in Early Years are taught to identify some similarities and differences between religions and cultural communities in this country. Therefore we focus on:
- Christianity: Easter and Christmas and the Christian belief about God.
- The Hindu festival of Diwali.
- The Chinese New Year Festival
- The Muslim festival of Ramadan and Eid-al Fitr
Year 1
- Christianity: What do Christians believe about God?
- Islam: What is Islam?
- Judaism: What does it mean to be a member of the Jewish community?
Year 2
- Christianity: What is the place of the Church in Christianity?
- Hinduism: What does it mean to be a Hindu?
- Buddhism: What is Buddhism?
Year 3
- Humanism: What is Humanism, and what do Humanists believe?
- Christianity: What is the significance of Easter within Christianity?
- Judaism: Why are festivals, celebrations, and High Holy Days so important within Judaism?
- Sikhism: What does Sikhism teach us about selfless service?
Year 4
- Buddhism: What does it mean to follow the Buddha?
- Islam: What do Muslims believe?
- Hinduism: What do sacred texts within Hinduism say about God?
Year 5
- Buddhism: What does Buddhism teach us about human experience?
- Hinduism: What place do festivals, worship, and celebrations have within Hinduism?
- Islam: What does it mean to be a Muslim?
Year 6
- Humanism: What can we learn from Humanism?
- Christianity: In what ways do Christians in different denominations worship?
- Judaism: Why is the Torah important within Judaism?
- Sikhism: What happens in Gurdwara?
By studying Religions and Worldviews, students at Egerton develop a thoughtful, informed, and respectful understanding of the diverse belief systems that shape the world around them. This knowledge helps them grow into compassionate individuals who are open-minded, accepting, and able to engage with the rich cultural diversity of our global community.