Come and See is the religious education programme that has previously been recommended by Liverpool Archdiocese. It is the scheme that some of the KS2 classes are following here at Twelve Apostles RCPS. The new Religious Education Directory (RED) has since been introduced as is currently being implemented in Reception to Year Four. All teachers have received specific training in the planning and delivering of the RED and this will continue over the next few years. By September 2026, the RED will be used to deliver RE throughout the school.
We also follow the programme A Journey in Love to teach the children discrete Relationship and Sex Education lessons (RSE). The scheme No Outsiders is also used to ensure that Twelve Apostles fully meets the requirements of The Education Act.
Click here to view our RE Handbook
Prayer & liturgy
At Twelve Apostles we believe that Collective Worship provides opportunities for pupils and staff to come together to worship God and that is an experience to which all can contribute and from which all can gain. It is central to the education of children in a Catholic School and it forms part of our school’s provision for prayer and worship. During Collective Worship, we respect the diversity of belief and commitment but it will be Catholic in character. It will reflect the liturgical tradition of the Church and have Christ at its heart.
Click here to view our Prayer & liturgy Policy
Spiritual Development
Spiritual education helps pupils to acquire insights into their personal existence which are of enduring worth. It is characterised by reflection, the attribution of meaning to experience, valuing a non-material dimension to life and intimations of an enduring reality. Spiritual is not synonymous with religious, all areas of the curriculum may contribute to pupils spiritual development. At Twelve Apostles we believe that everyone who interacts with pupils need to be involved in promoting the pupils spiritual development.
Click here to view our Spiritual Development policy
Moral Development
At Twelve Apostles we believe that everyone who interacts with pupils need to be involved in promoting the pupils moral development. ‘ Moral education helps pupils to acquire knowledge, understanding, intentions, attitudes and behaviour in relation to what is right or wrong.’ The school’s Mission Statement clearly reflects the importance of moral development.
Click here to view our Moral Development policy
Relationship, Health and Sex Education
The Governors at XII Apostles RCPS have adopted the 'Journey in Love' programme to support the non statutory Relationships and Sex Education in a Christian context. This will be introduced in the 2017-18 academic year and will taught in all year groups. It will replace the current scheme taught in year 5 and 6 ‘All that I am ‘.
The programme is authentic to the teaching of the Catholic Church and is intended to support teachers and parents in Catholic schools to enable the holistic growth of children. We acknowledge that parents and carers are the key persons for children learning about sex and relationships, the foremost educators. Our programme should complement their role in nurturing their children’s human wholeness.
As part of our commitment to you, we will hold a meeting annually for the parents and carers of children in Years 5 and 6 to discuss the programme's contents. You have the right to withdraw your child from this aspect of the curriculum however, this is not to be confused with curriculum Science which is statutory.
Click here to open our RSHE Policy
Click here to open our RSHE Long Term Plan Overview
A Journey in Love ; A brief outline of the programme
A Journey in Love has as its foundational premise in the belief that we are made in the image and likeness of God and, as a consequence, gender and sexuality are God’s gift, reflect God’s beauty and share in the divine creativity.
In order that children may grow and develop healthily and holistically towards an understanding of their gender and its implications for successful relationships, they must be at ease with themselves and grow in self- knowledge.
- YR: God loves each of us in our uniqueness
- Y1: We meet God’s love in our family
- Y2: We meet God’s love in the community
- Y3: How we live in love
- Y4: God loves us in our differences
- Y5: God loves me in my changing and development
- Y6: The wonder of God’s love in creating new life
'Love is the light – and in the end, the only light – that can always illuminate a world grown dim and give us the courage needed to keep living and working. Love is possible, and we are able to practise it because we are created in the image of God.’ Deus Caritas Est 39.
Your Right to Withdraw
As a parent/ guardian, you have the legal right to withdraw your child from some or all of Religious Education (RE) lessons. This right is protected under the Education Act 1996 and applies to all maintained schools, academies, and free schools in England.
Things to Consider Before Withdrawing
Before making a decision, you may want to consider:
- The Purpose of RE: RE is not about promoting a particular faith but about exploring different religious and non-religious worldviews. It helps children develop understanding, respect, and critical thinking skills.
- Alternative Learning: Schools are not required to provide alternative lessons if your child is withdrawn. You may be asked to supervise their learning at home or provide suitable materials.
- Social and Cultural Benefits: RE can help children understand different cultures, beliefs, and moral issues, promoting inclusivity and respect for others.
How to Withdraw Your Child
- Contact the School: Speak with the Headteacher or RE Subject Leader to discuss your concerns and understand the curriculum.
- Submit a Formal Request: A written request is usually required. You do not need to give a reason.
- Agree on Arrangements: Schools will discuss how your child’s time will be managed during RE lessons.
Final Thoughts
Withdrawing your child is a personal decision. If you are unsure, consider discussing it with your child, the school, or other parents to make an informed choice.