Religion and Worldviews
Religious Education / Worldviews
At AKS, Religious Education follows a Religion and Worldviews approach. This enables pupils to explore a broad range of religious and non-religious beliefs, values, and traditions, while also reflecting on their own developing sense of identity and belonging. Lessons encourage pupils to consider how people make sense of the world, the moral decisions they encounter, and the ways in which beliefs shape behaviour and actions.
The Importance of Religion and Worldviews in Preparation for Adulthood
Religion and Worldviews education plays a vital role in preparing our pupils for adulthood, independence, and meaningful employment. By exploring different cultures, beliefs, and values, pupils develop essential life skills such as empathy, communication, critical thinking, and respect for others. These skills contribute to personal wellbeing, confidence, and the ability to engage positively within their communities and future workplaces.
Understanding worldviews also supports pupils in making informed decisions and engaging thoughtfully and respectfully with the wide range of people and perspectives they will encounter throughout adult life.
At AKS, requests for withdrawal from Religion and Worldviews lessons are extremely rare. We are proud that our curriculum is inclusive, balanced, and respectful of all beliefs, and we believe that every pupil benefits from taking part. However, we recognise that, in some circumstances, parents or carers may wish to request that their child be wholly or partly withdrawn from these lessons.
If you are considering this, please contact the Headteacher in writing. A meeting will be offered with the Subject Leader for Humanities to explain what is taught, listen to your concerns, and discuss how we can best support your child. Parents are not required to give a reason for withdrawal, but open discussion often helps ensure that decisions are well-informed and in the pupil’s best interests.
After Withdrawal
Your child will be supervised elsewhere in school during Religion and Worldviews lessons. While the school is not required to provide alternative learning materials, we will ensure that your child is safe and meaningfully occupied.
Parents who choose to withdraw their child should be aware that some learning linked to moral, social, and cultural development, important for life and work in modern Britain, will be missed by their child.
Please note that withdrawal applies only to Religion and Worldviews lessons, not to wider curriculum areas that may include references to religion or belief (for example, in English, History, Art, or PSD). The subject makes an important contribution to pupils’ social understanding and preparation for adult life.