Religious Education at Sunnyside Academy
“We may have different religions, different languages, different coloured skin, but we all belong to one human race.”
— Kofi Annan
Religious Education
At Sunnyside Academy, Religious Education is far more than a subject, it’s a journey of discovery, empathy and personal growth. Rooted in the Middlesbrough Agreed Syllabus, our RE curriculum empowers pupils to explore diverse beliefs, reflect on their own values and engage meaningfully with the world around them.
Our RE curriculum is designed to support our pupils in a number of ways:
- Introduce them to major world religions and non-religious worldviews
- Encourage critical thinking and respectful dialogue
- Promote understanding of moral and ethical issues
- Support spiritual development and personal reflection
We use progression documents to ensure pupils build knowledge year-on-year, deepening and broadening their understanding of faith, culture and identity.
Enrichment & Exploration
RE at Sunnyside extends beyond the classroom through a rich tapestry of experiences. Daily acts of collective worship are an integral part of life at Sunnyside Academy. These moments offer pupils a chance to pause, reflect and connect with shared values such as kindness, respect and gratitude. Pupils take part in enrichment activities such as visits to places of worship, meeting faith leaders and celebrating important religious festivals. These experiences allow children to see the real-world impact of belief systems and deepen their understanding of different cultures and communities. We actively build bridges between school and community. Pupils engage in fundraising and awareness campaigns for causes aligned with religious values, such as food donations to food banks and Red Nose Day support. Shared values projects with other schools and community groups promote kindness, justice and stewardship through our own Student Council.
Ultimately, RE at Sunnyside supports the personal development and wellbeing of every child. It provides a safe space for thoughtful discussion, nurtures spiritual growth and empowers our pupils to make sense of the world and their place within it.