Year 4 Religious Education

During this branch, Year 4 explore how the Bible is an account of God’s relationship with His people, His concern for them, and their response to His love.

Pupils learn that events such as the life of Abraham and his covenant with God take place before the birth of Jesus, in the Old Testament.

We begin the term by becoming familiar with the story of Abraham and the significance of his covenant with God, understanding how we can make covenants with God in our own lives.

Pupils draw parallels between the story of Abraham being commanded to sacrifice his son Isaac and the crucifixion, recognising how Abraham’s story in the Old Testament foreshadows the story of the Cross in the New Testament.

Ahead of our religious workshop on Judaism, Year 4 learn how to link Abraham’s covenant with both Christianity and Judaism.

They recognise that in Judaism, Abraham is the patriarch and his covenant with God is central to the Jewish faith, whereas Christians see Abraham’s faith as a model to follow and view Jesus as a fulfilment of the promises made to Abraham.

In Branch 2, Year 4 pupils learn about Prophecy and Promise, focusing on Elijah and John the Baptist as examples of God’s messengers who call people back to faith.

Pupils understand that Elijah reminds the Israelites of their covenant with God amidst widespread idolatry, while John the Baptist—featured in the Gospels of Mark and Matthew—prepares for Jesus’ arrival, calls for repentance, and fulfils Isaiah’s prophecy. They also learn how his role connects to Advent, a time of spiritual preparation.

Pupils explore the Feast of Christ the King, which marks the end of the Church year and celebrates Jesus’ compassionate kingship.

They study the Jesse Tree to link Jesus’ ancestry to biblical history, reflecting on artistic portrayals and their meaning.

Finally, pupils consider how the messages of Elijah and John the Baptist continue to resonate today, inspiring faith, courage, and commitment in their own lives.

In Branch 3, Galilee to Jerusalem, Year 4 explore why Jesus is called ‘Christ’ (the Anointed One) by linking this title to Scripture.

Pupils study how Jesus’ response to John the Baptist’s followers and His acts of healing affirm His identity as the Messiah. They recognise that Jesus reveals the nature of God’s Kingdom as inclusive and compassionate, welcoming those excluded by society.

Pupils learn about the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Sacrament of the Sick, understanding how these practices reflect Jesus’ ministry of healing and forgiveness.

They connect the belief that Jesus is the Messiah to the Nicene Creed, focusing on why Catholics recite Articles 2–4 as expressions of their faith.

Pupils study individuals and organisations inspired by Jesus’ teachings to serve marginalised communities, emphasising the virtues of faith, hope, and love.

They reflect on Jesus’ question, “Who do you say I am?”, comparing Peter’s response to modern Christian beliefs and considering Jesus’ miracles as expressions of love and signs of God’s Kingdom.

Finally, pupils reflect on how they can show love and service to people excluded by society, inspired by Jesus’ example.

They discuss how Christians today can follow Jesus’ model of service and the impact this could have on their lives and communities.

In Branch 4, Desert to Garden, Year 4 pupils study key Christian teachings, beginning with the Parable of the Prodigal Son and its message of God’s mercy and forgiveness.

They connect this with the Judgement of Nations parable, learning that helping others is essential to loving God.

Pupils sequence the events of Holy Week, discuss different reactions to Jesus, and retell St. Peter’s story, reflecting on moments of failure and forgiveness.

They use specialist vocabulary to describe the corporal works of mercy and link these acts to living as active members of the Church.

Pupils explore examples of people and organisations who embody mercy and love. They consider how they can change during Lent to better serve others.

Finally, they discuss how forgiveness can transform both individuals and communities, deepening their understanding of compassion and Christian service.

In Branch 5, To the Ends of the Earth, Year 4 pupils explore connections between significant moments in Peter’s life, such as his declaration of faith (Matthew 16:13–20), his three denials, and his reaffirmations (John 21:15–17).

They examine Jesus’ words to Peter as the rock on which the Church is built (Matthew 16:18) and understand the link to the Pope as Peter’s successor.

Pupils learn the meaning of the term ‘apostle’ and why the Church holds this identity. They encounter the Apostles’ Creed and understand that it summarises core Christian beliefs.

The structure of the Church is explained, along with how it continues Jesus’ work today—both locally and globally.

Pupils learn about the communion of saints and Mary’s special role as Queen of Heaven within this spiritual community.

They reflect on Peter’s feelings during key moments, such as finding the empty tomb and encountering Jesus after the resurrection.

Pupils discuss why the Pope is called ‘the servant of the servants of God’, relating it to Jesus’ example of servant leadership, and explore artistic depictions of Mary and specific prayers.

Finally, pupils reflect on how Christian communities continue Jesus’ work, emphasising service and compassion in their local context.

Branch 6 sees Year 4 pupils study the life of St. Paul, focusing on his conversion and his role in spreading Christianity.

They will explore his teachings on love and faith, connecting them to the theological virtues from 1 Corinthians 13:1-7, 13.

Pupils will also learn about different Catholic liturgical rites, understanding why various traditions developed and how Christians in their local area work together for the common good.

The unit will introduce the five pillars of Islam, explaining their importance to British Muslims. Pupils will reflect on artistic depictions of St. Paul’s encounter with Jesus and explore art from other Catholic communities, like Coptic icons.

Pupils will listen to stories from different Christian communities, discuss how religious beliefs shape their lives, and consider how these lessons can impact their own relationships and communities.