Religious and moral education includes learning about Christianity and other world religions, and supports the development of beliefs and values.
It also includes aspects of philosophical enquiry.
Scotland is now a nation which reflects a wide range of beliefs, values and traditions.
Religious and moral education enables children and young people to explore the world’s major religions and approaches to living which are independent of religious belief, and be challenged by these different beliefs and values.
It supports children and young people in developing responsible attitudes to other people, their values and their capacity for moral judgement.
The study of Christianity, which has shaped the history and traditions of Scotland and continues to exert an influence on national life, is an essential feature of religious and moral education for all children and young people.
Learning through religious and moral education enables children and young people to:
- develop a knowledge and understanding of Christianity and other world religions and recognise religion as an important expression of human experience
- explore moral values such as wisdom, justice, compassion and integrity
investigate and understand the responses which religions can offer to questions about the nature and meaning of life - develop the skills of reflection, discernment, critical thinking, and deciding how to act when making moral decisions
- develop their beliefs, attitudes, moral values and practices through personal search, discovery and critical evaluation, and make a positive difference to the world by putting their beliefs and values into action.
In accordance with the guidelines issued at least 2.5 hours per week is given to religious education throughout the school year. The R.E. curriculum in all Catholic schools is determined by the Bishop and the Diocesan Advisors.
Our religious programme ‘This Is Our Faith’ offers a lively and stimulating presentation of the Christian way of life appropriate to the age and stage of development of the child. The programme comprises of Christianity, other world religions and also provides the opportunity for celebration, prayer and reflection. Children are prepared for the Sacraments of Reconciliation at Primary 3, First Communion at Primary 4 and Confirmation in Primary 7.
Father Alex Stewart is also a frequent and welcome visitor to our school. As well as visiting classes, Worship Wednesday Mass is celebrated each month. There are opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation during Advent and Lent. The Religious Programme plays a vital role in supporting our policy of ensuring that all pupils, irrespective of belief, race, gender and disability are provided with an education which allows them to develop their full potential.
In the case of the children who are not Catholic, parents can be reassured that religious education is approached sensitively and with respect for those of other faiths and of none.
