Jigsaw RE

What is Jigsaw RE?

At The Willows we follow the Hillingdon Religious Education Agreed Syllabus using Jigsaw RE.

Jigsaw RE is an enquiry-based scheme of work, covering the principal world faiths and humanism in a progressive way from EYFS to Year 6. In the early years, the learning is closely matched to Development Matters to contribute meaningfully to your child’s holistic development. Throughout all the enquiries, the children’s spiritual, moral, social and cultural education is carefully considered.

Each enquiry lasts for a term and begins with a “big” question such as “What is the best way for a Christian/Jew/Muslim etc. to show commitment to God?” The children then start discussing the theme of the enquiry (in this case, commitment) from their own experience. What have they shown commitment to? Brownies? Cubs? Their sporting team? Playing an instrument?

Only when the children fully understand the concept they are considering, do they then move on to investigating what the people following the studied religion or world view believe about it. They will spend approximately 3 lessons on this, learning in a variety of ways, so they can adapt their responses and come to a measured conclusion. In week 5 they will complete an activity which can assess their learning, by answering their “big” question. The assessment activities are child-friendly and can be answered in a variety of ways, as long as the child can justify their view with the knowledge they have gained throughout the enquiry. This demonstrates the level of critical thinking that the children can apply – a valuable skill for them throughout the school curriculum.

The final week in every enquiry gives the children time to reflect on what they have learnt about the concept and apply it to their own lives, thus allowing them to form their own beliefs and identity. For example, learning that Sikhs share their food with all who attend has taught me ……… about sharing that I would like to take forward with me. These lessons are often very creative and children have opportunities to make items to express themselves in ways other than just writing.

Jigsaw RE gives schools a choice of which religions to teach in different year groups. At The Willows we have chosen Christianity, Hinduism and Islam as we feel this best represents our demographic.

Further information about Jigsaw RE can be found at https://jigsawre.co.uk

The school’s Religious Education Policy can be found on our website under ‘Key Information’ then ‘Policies’.

RE Impact Statement

At The Willows, our RE curriculum enables children to develop an informed understanding of a range of religions and world views, fostering respect, empathy and an appreciation of diversity. We aim for all children to leave school as thoughtful, reflective and open-minded members of society who can positively contribute to their communities.

Our enquiry-based approach encourages children to explore challenging questions about meaning, purpose, beliefs, identity and values. Through high-quality discussions and sensitive teaching, children learn to express their own viewpoints confidently while respecting those of others.

Jigsaw RE supports children’s spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. By exploring themes such as belonging, rituals, celebrations, ethics and different ways of living, children deepen their understanding of the wider world and develop a compassionate and reflective outlook.

RE is taught consistently using the Jigsaw RE scheme. Knowledge, vocabulary and key concepts are built upon progressively year by year. The scheme provides clarity, coherence and accurate subject coverage that aligns with the locally-agreed syllabus.

Children’s understanding is further enriched by visits to a place of worship, school celebrations, visitors and the marking of significant religious and cultural events throughout the year.

RE Whole School Overview

Please note that as a specialist provision, the content and coverage is adapted for the age, needs and developmental stage of our children. For further information, please contact the school office.

 

 To find out more information about Jigsaw RE and how it is used at The Willows contact us here or alternatively visit the Jigsaw RE website here.