As with the cross-curricular themes, these four dimensions of education need to be present in RE. Most independent schools are already in a strong position here because of their extra-curricular life, chaplains and chaplaincies, and the honouring of their Christian foundations. Parents and others expect high standards of such schools.

Spiritual and Moral development:

Built into the Components is the capacity for pupil development in these areas, particularly Beliefs, Ethics and Worship. Simple definitions might read as follows: Spirituality refers to the inner nature of human beings often expressed in the search for meaning and purpose in life; the sense of personal value, and values; reflection on the challenges life brings; and a sense of mystery and awe at the universe. Morality refers to attitudes and motives in relation to others and to moral ideals or absolutes including God; consideration of a variety of approaches to morality; and the ability to reflect rationally on ethical issues.

Pupils need the opportunity to learn, consider, respond and reflect on various issues under these categories, and in various ways. RE alone is not the purveyor of all these points, but has clearly a major part to play. Pupils need to be guided in these areas in order to know when progress, or development, has occurred. Skills of listening, respecting, discussing and reconsidering are to be encouraged.
 

	consider issues of God's existence
	discuss a range of moral issues and approaches to these
	examine the work of charities
	visit places of worship
	meet guests from a variety of Faith communities
	produce creative responses to spiritual/moral issues,  such as death or war, joy or sacrifice

Social and Cultural development:

RE contributes here to issues of multi-culturalism, minorities, human rights and responsibilities, conflict and reconciliation: it has much to say about politics, society and family life; it introduces pupils to many of the greatest artistic, musical and dramatic productions in history, giving the values by which societies live. With sufficient opportunity, RE should broaden significantly the outlooks of pupils and encourage thought at greater depth.
 

	analyse contemporary issues through the media's reporting
	be intorduced to distinctive historical, artistic and cultural achievements  of the Faiths through visits, videos, exhibitions and speakers
	role-play situations of social conflict and resolve them
	use assemblies for special presentations on social and cultural themes