RE Intent

At West Park Academy, we believe that it is vital for all our pupils to learn from and about religion, so that they can understand the world around them. Our vision is of a community where people of different beliefs and religions live side by side, displaying mutual respect, understanding and friendship. It is essential that our children and young people are supported in developing these qualities and, whilst growing in confidence, achieve a level of critical awareness that helps them to become builders and shapers of a better North East of England.

Through Religious Education, pupils develop their knowledge of the world faiths, and their understanding and awareness of the beliefs, values and traditions of other individuals, societies, communities and cultures. We encourage our pupils to be curious about the world and to reflect on their own beliefs, values and experiences and grow individually and together with sensitivity and respect towards people of all faiths and none. We aim to provide many opportunities for Religious Education teaching and learning to challenge stereotypical views and to appreciate difference positively.

Our Religious Education curriculum is enhanced further with trips to places of worship in our local area. We are educating children in their own locality, but also to live in a wider region, the UK and as world citizens.

Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) Intent

At West Park Academy we believe that it is vital that all children leave us with the skills to lead a healthy, responsible and full filled life. PSHE is an embedded part of our broad and balanced curriculum where we ensure that we develop the skills of self-worth, independence, resilience and respect. We want our children to be confident learners who can voice their opinions, be comfortable in their own skins and be tolerant and empathetic towards others.

Children will take inspiration and empowerment from great leaders and people who have had the confidence to stand up for their rights. PSHE prepares them to manage many of the most critical opportunities, challenges and responsibilities they will face growing up in such rapidly changing and challenging times. It also helps them to connect and apply the knowledge and understanding they learn in all subjects to practical, real-life situations while helping them to feel safe and secure enough to fulfil their academic potential.

Through PSHE we actively promote the British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs to prepare our pupils for life in modern day Britain.

Relationships & Sex Education

Relationships and sex education focuses on healthy relationships and keeping children safe in the modern world. It also covers a wide range of topics relating to physical and mental health, wellbeing, safeguarding and healthy relationships. Learning about the emotional, social and physical aspects of growing up will give children and young people the information, skills and positive values to have safe, fulfilling relationships and will help them take responsibility for their own well-being.

Please note, children cannot be withdrawn from studying the National Curriculum. However there are some exceptions to this in relation to Religious Education and Sex Education, which can be discussed upon request.