RE is a fundamental aspect of the curriculum taught here at St John Fisher School. The children’s own experience, at the appropriate level of growth, is the basis on which their awareness and knowledge of God is developed.

Our religious teaching is not confined to specific daily lessons but permeates the whole life of the school in line with our School Mission Statement:

‘Let all that you do be done in love’

1 Corinthians 16:14

The school serves the parishes of Blessed Dominic Barberi and Sacred Heart; there are close links between the parishes and the school. Priests from the local parishes regularly visit the school for Mass, prayer services, and to speak to individual classes or year groups. Children receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation during Advent and Lent here in school.

The Diocesan Scheme of Work, ‘Learning and Growing as the People of God’ is supplemented by the celebration of the Liturgical Year of the Church. This is achieved through class teaching and through celebrations such as attending Mass, collective worship, assemblies and daily prayers. As part of the curriculum children will also learn about other world faiths.

The school attends Mass at Blessed Dominic Barberi Church on major feast days and Holy Days of Obligation and we also have Mass in school on other occasions, such as on the feast of St John Fisher (22nd June). Families are invited to join us for Mass and on Fridays at 9:00 am for our weekly sharing assembly.

In Year 3 the Diocesan Scheme of Work supports the preparation of the children to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Sacrament of the Eucharist. However, children attend preparation classes in their own parishes. Parents are encouraged to contact their Parish Priests at the beginning of the year to obtain details. Similarly, the teaching of R.E. in Year 6 includes the teaching of the Sacrament of Confirmation.

Preparation classes to receive the Sacrament again take place in parishes where pupils are supported in their preparation by staff/local committee members.

Multi-cultural education is an essential element of St John Fisher School’s curriculum.

Children learn about other faiths and are given the opportunity to learn from members of other faith communities.