Year 3 Religious Education

In this unit of study, Year 3 revisit the first Creation story from Genesis, exploring the poetic language used to describe how the world is formed.

Pupils encounter the belief that human beings are made “in the image of God” (Genesis 1:27) and discuss what this means.

They make connections between the first Creation story, the belief in the equality of all people, and the Catholic Social Teaching principle of human dignity.

Pupils also explore stewardship, linking Genesis 1:26–31 with actions people can take today, as outlined in Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ (LS 88).

Through the study of psalms and prayers praising Creation, pupils reflect on how human beings are called to have a loving relationship with God, each other, and the world, as Pope Francis teaches in Laudato Si’ (LS 66).

The unit encourages pupils to imagine how caring for the world can lead to positive change and to think critically about treating all people equally.

They also explore artistic expressions of Creation, such as St. Francis of Assisi’s Canticle of Creation, and spend time reflecting on the blessings of Creation in their own lives.

This half term, Year 3 focus on two key themes: the Mass and Prophecy & Promise.

In the first half of the term, pupils learn about the significance of the Mass. They discuss the importance of Sunday as a holy day, connecting it to the Creation story in Genesis.

Pupils explore how Catholics celebrate the Mass, learning about its structure—from the Introductory Rites, to the Liturgy of the Word, and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. They become familiar with the special prayers, symbols, and actions that mark the service.

In the second half of the term, the focus shifts to Prophecy and Promise. Pupils explore Joseph’s trust in God and learn about the messages brought by angels in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, linking these to the prophecies of Isaiah.

They consider how the themes of Advent and Christmas represent hope and faith for Christians.

The Catholic Social Teaching principle for this term is the Preferential Option for the Poor.

During Advent, pupils learn how they can make a difference by helping others in need. Through this theme, they explore ways to support and uplift those who are less fortunate, reflecting the spirit of compassion and generosity that Advent calls us to embrace.

Year 3 learn about the significance of the visit of the Magi and explore the deeper meanings of the gifts they bring, helping them understand what these gifts reveal about Jesus.

Pupils explore what the Kingdom of God is—and what it is not—gaining insight through Jesus’ miracles and parables that illustrate His compassion and the nature of the kingdom.

They examine two of Jesus’ parables and discuss how these stories reveal the values of God’s kingdom. Pupils retell a chosen parable, linking its message with Jesus’ teachings.

Additionally, pupils learn the Our Father prayer and connect its meaning to building the Kingdom of God.

The Catholic Social Teaching principle for this unit is Solidarity. Pupils reflect on how St. Damien of Molokai demonstrates solidarity by living with and caring for people with leprosy.

They explore how they, too, can live out this value in their own lives.

Throughout the unit, pupils are encouraged to consider how people can contribute to building the Kingdom of God and what that means for their own actions and choices.

In this unit, Year 3 learn about the significance of the Eucharist and the Mass, focusing on key stories and teachings of Jesus.

Pupils retell the story of the feeding of the five thousand and explore the connection between Jesus’ words and actions at the Last Supper and the miracle of the loaves.

They understand how Jesus shows love at the Last Supper and how this love is shared in the celebration of the Eucharist, especially during First Communion.

Pupils recognise that the Eucharist is a special moment in which God offers Himself to communicants, bringing them closer together as one body in the Church.

By studying the symbols and actions of the Mass—particularly in the Liturgy of the Eucharist—they gain insight into the beliefs behind these practices.

Through critical thinking, Year 3 wonder about the offertory prayer and its connection to Creation. They explore different cultural traditions associated with Holy Week.

Pupils reflect on how participating in Lent—through prayer, fasting, and helping others—builds community and strengthens relationships.

The Catholic Social Teaching focus for this unit is the principle of Participation.

In this unit, Year 3 explore key teachings about the Holy Trinity, the Mass, and the early Church.

By the end of the unit, pupils connect Scripture passages—such as the stories of Emmaus and the Great Commission—to parts of the Mass, deepening their understanding of how the liturgy reflects biblical events.

They use religious language to describe the mystery of the Trinity and recognise symbols of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, such as the sign of the cross, which serves as a reminder of their baptism and connection to the Christian community.

Pupils learn prayers expressing belief in the Trinity, including the Glory Be and Come Holy Spirit, and recognise Mary’s role in prayer, linking this with the Catholic tradition of asking for her intercession.

The unit also helps pupils connect the life of Jesus in the Gospels, the Acts of the Apostles, and Paul’s letters, understanding the various forms of writing used in Scripture to communicate God’s message.

Through critical reflection, pupils consider the meaning of events such as the recognition of Jesus on the road to Emmaus and the feelings of the disciples after the Ascension.

They explore symbols of the Trinity and discuss their significance, potentially visiting a local church to observe these symbols in context.

In response to their learning, pupils reflect on how the Holy Spirit empowers the disciples and consider how they, too, can be guided by the Spirit in their lives.

Our Catholic Social Teaching focus for this unit is the Common Good.

Children investigate the impact of Mary’s Meals, discussing how ensuring every child has access to food and education reflects the values of the common good and Mary’s nurturing love for all.

In this unit of study, Year 3 explore the connections between the Jewish celebration of Passover and the Last Supper, examining the links between Exodus and the teachings of Jesus.

Pupils learn about the significance of Passover in Jewish tradition today, using religious vocabulary to describe the symbols and actions involved in the meal.

They also explore Islamic beliefs and practices, focusing on the concept of one God, the significance of Muhammad, and the importance of God’s will in daily life.

Through discussion and reflection, pupils consider how these faiths shape the lives of their followers.

The Catholic Social Teaching focus for this unit is Human Dignity.

Pupils examine how Jesus’ teachings challenge the social norms of the Roman Empire, promoting the inherent dignity of every person.