RE
Spiritual Development at St Matthew’s Infant School
Love and relationships are at the heart as we provide opportunity for spiritual development through development of children’s voice and stories, as they learn to reflect on self, others, beauty and beyond. Time for reflection, response and exploration is given for children to share and to learn from others.
We believe that children express their spirituality through telling stories and we provide time for them to tell their stories and to listen to those of others, learning together from shared stories that have value. We use the Andrew Rickett model of The Red Kite: Telling the Story, a framework for spirituality, which defines four aspects of how children talk about their spirituality through their stories:
Self
Others
Beauty
Beyond
These are connected through relationship, with love at the heart.
Children learn about their personal narrative with their stories reflecting who they are, shaping a sense of identity. We place value on giving children time to share and to listen to each other’s stories and to learn from them.
Opportunities for spiritual development are mapped across the curriculum, including RE, ensuring that children develop a range of skills that enable them to flourish in their learning and in their life.
RE in Surrey Schools Guide
This useful guide explains what RE is, why children learn RE, what they will learn and the role of parents and carers:
Religious Education at St Matthew’s Infant School
At St Matthew’s Infant School, Christ is at the centre of our school and children are at the centre of all that we do. Religious Education (RE) is a valued and integral part of our curriculum and plays a key role in enabling our Christian vision and values to be lived out each day.
Our Christian vision and values are at the very heart of our whole school curriculum, underpinning teaching and learning and fostering a strong, cohesive community. Through RE, we nurture happy, confident and successful learners who are encouraged to grow academically, spiritually and personally as they begin their lifelong journey.
As Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me” (Luke 18:16), we have inclusive, open arms that welcome all children from our local community. RE reflects this sense of welcome, providing a safe and respectful space where every child is known, valued and encouraged to flourish.
Our RE Curriculum
We follow the Surrey Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education (2023–2028)– link. This ensures that the RE our children receive is well‑planned, progressive and meets statutory expectations.
As an infant school, we believe in “starting children off on the way they should go” (Proverbs). Our values‑based curriculum, underpinned by high expectations and thoughtful teaching, supports all children to succeed and to reach their full potential by the end of Key Stage One.
In RE, children learn through stories, discussion, creative activities and reflection. Christianity is taught as a living faith, with strong links to our school vision, values and local church, alongside learning about other religions and beliefs. Careful sequencing ensures children’s understanding deepens as they move through the school.
What children learn in RE
Across Reception, Year 1 and Year 2, children:
- Learn about key Christian beliefs, stories and celebrations, including Christmas and Easter
- Explore ideas of belonging, kindness and community, closely linked to our school values
- Begin to understand how faith influences people’s lives and choices
- Learn about other religions such as Judaism and Islam, developing respect, empathy and understanding
- Build skills of listening, questioning, reflection and thoughtful communication
As children grow in confidence, they are encouraged to share their ideas, ask questions and reflect on their learning. These opportunities help children develop self‑awareness and confidence as thinkers and learners, now and in the future.
RE long term plan with units- link
What RE looks like in the classroom
In our classrooms, RE is lively, engaging and inclusive. Learning experiences are practical and carefully designed to reflect our vision and values in action.
You might see children:
- Listening to and retelling Bible stories through drama or small‑world play
- Exploring religious artefacts and symbols
- Sharing ideas respectfully during circle‑time discussions
- Creating artwork or written responses inspired by stories and themes
- Taking moments of quiet reflection
Teachers encourage children to listen attentively, speak thoughtfully and show kindness and respect towards others. Through these experiences, children are supported to “spread their wings and soar like eagles” (Isaiah 40:31), growing in confidence and understanding.
Our values in action
Our school values of Responsibility, Friendship, Justice and Wisdom are woven throughout RE teaching and learning. These values shape how children engage with one another, approach learning and understand their role within the wider community.
Our inclusive approach
We recognise and celebrate the diverse backgrounds of our school community. RE is taught sensitively and inclusively, ensuring that all children feel welcomed, respected and supported, regardless of their belief or background.
Parents have the legal right to withdraw their child from RE.
Through high‑quality Religious Education, rooted in our Christian vision and values, we prepare our children for the next stage of their education and for life beyond school.
