Big Questions
At St Malachy’s, we encourage pupils to develop a deeper understanding of faith, life and the world around them through the exploration of Big Questions. These questions provide opportunities for children to think deeply, reflect, discuss and express their own ideas while engaging respectfully with the views of others.
Big Questions are an important part of our Religious Education curriculum, helping pupils to explore key themes within Catholic teaching and to consider how faith relates to everyday life. Through discussion, reflection and enquiry, children are encouraged to develop their ability to ask meaningful questions about belief, values, morality and purpose.
In addition to the Big Questions explored within Religious Education, pupils also encounter Big Questions across the wider curriculum. These questions are carefully designed to match each unit of work and encourage curiosity, critical thinking and reflection across subjects such as history, geography, science and the arts.
By engaging with Big Questions in different areas of learning, pupils are given regular opportunities to explore spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development throughout the school day. Children are encouraged to reflect on themes such as justice, responsibility, identity, diversity, relationships and care for the world around them.
Through this approach, pupils are supported in developing their own values, beliefs and understanding of others, while learning to listen thoughtfully, discuss respectfully and appreciate different perspectives.
By embedding Big Questions throughout both Religious Education and the wider curriculum, we aim to nurture thoughtful, reflective and compassionate learners who are