Eastbury Primary School has become the first primary school in Barking and Dagenham to achieve the Religious Education (RE) Quality Mark.

The school has been awarded the honour for their RE curriculum that provides opportunities to develop children’s knowledge and understanding of world religions.

Through RE lessons, the school encourages children to ask and reflect on challenging questions and allow opportunities for personal reflection where children can explore their own beliefs. Pupils are also encouraged to appreciate and respect the different cultures in today’s society.

Co-Headteachers of Eastbury Primary School, Lisa Shepherd and Joe Wilson, commented on the award: “We are very proud of this award which is a tribute to our commitment to providing excellent quality education across the whole curriculum”.

During the 2018–2019 academic year, the Barking School applied for the Religious Education Quality Mark (REQM) that recognises high quality RE, particularly for schools which are providing their learners with authentic experiences and contributing to whole school outcomes. 

Claire Clinton, the Barking and Dagenham RE advisor, commented on their achievement: “I am so pleased that Eastbury Primary School were awarded a silver quality mark.  It is a very hard award to achieve and reflects a lot of work by the staff to ensure that Religious Education is taught well, and pupils can flourish in their understanding of different people’s ways of life.” 

Councillor Evelyn Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment and School Improvement said: “It is important that children learn about different cultures as it will give them a broader outlook on people and their beliefs.

“Thank you to all those involved at Eastbury Primary for their work in this important area. I congratulate them on the award and encourage other schools to follow.”