At St. Bernard's primary school, the Religion curriculum is designed to foster a deep understanding and appreciation of faith, love, and service within the context of the Northern Ireland (NI) Curriculum and the Catholic Schools Communities of Faith, Love and Service.
Catholic Schools: Delivering for Communities
Our approach is also guided by the principles outlined in the Catholic Schools: Delivering for Communities document. This paper articulates the future vision of Catholic Education, its ethos, and values. It highlights the Catholic school sector as an exemplar of service delivery, addressing key educational challenges and improving outcomes for children and young people. We strive to create a high-achieving, inclusive education system that cherishes diversity and enriches the lives of everyone in the wider St. Bernadette’s Parish and beyond.
NI Curriculum
Religious Education (RE) is a compulsory part of the NI Curriculum, providing a structured approach to exploring faith and morality. Pupils learn about the Revelation of God, the Christian Church, and moral teachings, providing a foundation for understanding their faith and its application in daily life.
Catholic Schools Communities of Faith, Love and Service
St. Bernard's is committed to the principles of the Catholic Schools Communities of Faith, Love and Service. This commitment is reflected in our approach to Religious Education, which emphasises the integral formation of pupils' intellectual, moral, emotional, physical, and spiritual faculties. We aim to create a faith-based community where values, beliefs, and attitudes are conveyed through the teachings of the Gospel and the traditions of the Catholic Church.
Key Components of Our Religion Curriculum
Faith Formation:
Pupils are introduced to the core beliefs and practices of the Catholic faith, including the study of the Bible, the sacraments, and the lives of saints. This helps them develop a personal relationship with God and a deeper understanding of their faith. We use the Grow in Love programme from Primary 1 to Primary 7 to support this faith formation.
Moral Education:
Through discussions and activities, pupils learn about moral values and ethical decision-making, guided by the teachings of the Church. This helps them develop a strong moral compass and the ability to make responsible choices.
Community and Service:
Emphasising the importance of community, pupils are encouraged to participate in service projects and community activities. This fosters a sense of responsibility and compassion, helping them to live out their faith through acts of love and service.
Interfaith Understanding:
While rooted in the Catholic tradition, our curriculum also includes the study of other world religions, promoting respect and understanding of diverse beliefs and practices. This prepares pupils to engage with the wider world in a spirit of tolerance and mutual respect.
Our Religion curriculum is designed to nurture the whole child, helping them grow in faith, knowledge, and love. We strive to create an environment where every pupil feels valued and supported in their spiritual journey.
