Faith and Philosophy (RE)

Welcome to Faith and Philosophy (RE) at Wallace Fields Junior School

Faith and Philosophy at WFJS is about more than learning facts about religions. It is an opportunity for children to explore life's big questions, encounter diverse world views and develop the skills to discuss, challenge and reflect on ideas with confidence and respect.

What is our Intent?

At WFJS, Faith and Philosophy encourages children to explore beliefs, worldviews and life's big questions through discussion, enquiry and reflection. Following the Surrey Agreed Syllabus (2023–2028), pupils learn about a range of faiths and non-religious worldviews while developing an understanding of the diverse society in which they live. Children are encouraged to think deeply about questions such as What is wisdom?, What is fair? and What does it mean to belong? while learning to appreciate different perspectives and express their own ideas with confidence and respect.

How do we Implement this?

Faith and Philosophy is taught through regular, discussion-based lessons where children's questions and ideas are central to learning. The curriculum follows the key concepts and golden threads of the Surrey SACRE syllabus, helping pupils build knowledge and make connections across different faiths and worldviews. Learning is enriched through the use of artefacts in every year group, visitors, workshops and visits to places of worship whenever possible. Pupil voice helps shape developments within the subject, leading to increased opportunities for creative responses and encounters with people from different faith communities. We are also introducing Philosophy for Children (P4C) across the school, giving pupils further opportunities to explore philosophical ideas and engage in thoughtful dialogue.

What is the Impact of our Curriculum?

Children develop a secure understanding of a range of faiths, beliefs and worldviews and can discuss religious, ethical and philosophical ideas with increasing confidence. Through regular opportunities for discussion and reflection, pupils learn to listen respectfully, challenge ideas thoughtfully and appreciate different viewpoints. They develop the British Values of mutual respect and tolerance and gain the knowledge, empathy and critical-thinking skills needed to participate positively in modern British society. Pupils see Faith and Philosophy as a subject that allows them to question, reflect and make sense of the world around them.