“I am the Good Shepherd; I know my own and my own know me”. John 10:14"
By the end of this branch, pupils will recognise and identify key people who encountered Jesus, acknowledging that he holds a special place in religious teachings. They will engage with the Gospel of Luke, retelling stories in various creative forms to deepen their understanding of these religious accounts.
Pupils will make simple connections between Jesus’ mission, as announced in Luke 4:16-19, and the Christian calling to share God’s love with others today. Through examining the story of Zacchaeus, they will ask and answer questions about his transformation after meeting Jesus, helping them think critically about personal change. Additionally, pupils will imagine the experiences of those who met Jesus and explore how encounters with him might have transformed them. Listening to how people celebrate Candlemas will enrich their understanding of faith expressions.
Pupils will be invited to reflect on the meaning of the Good News in their lives, consider how Jesus is a 'light' for all people, and think about ways they can bring light to their families and communities, learning from Jesus' example of care for others.
Pupils will explore the concept of solidarity by focusing on St. Francis of Assisi. They will learn how St. Francis exemplified solidarity by demonstrating love and care for all living things, particularly animals and nature. Through stories and examples from his life, pupils will understand that St. Francis saw all of creation as interconnected and treated every living being with compassion and respect.