Encountering Jesus in the first two years of primary religious education

Abstract

The Church and the Education Authorities are at present working on a new syllabus for Religious Education and a new National Minimum Curriculum. From the documents that both institutions have published in these past months, it is evident that there will be major changes in teaching and learning, particularly in Religious Education. After studying the role of Religious Education during early years, I have studied what approach is best suited to help children encounter Jesus and his message. Keeping in mind the new syllabus for Religious Education, which is due to be published early next year, I will present a number of learning activities for Year 1 and Year 2 pupils, that can help teachers in their endeavor. Throughout my study I have referred to mainly Maria Montessori, as well as the Godly Play approach.