At Waterford Educate Together National School, we follow the Learn Together Ethical Education Curriculum as part of our commitment to providing a values-led, inclusive education for every child.
Unlike denominational schools, we do not provide religious instruction or faith formation. Instead, we offer a broad and respectful programme that teaches ethics, values, and belief systems in a way that encourages understanding, critical thinking, and kindness.
The Learn Together curriculum is a central part of what makes an Educate Together school unique.
🌱 What is the Learn Together Curriculum?
Developed by Educate Together, the Learn Together curriculum:
- Promotes human rights, equality and active citizenship
- Respects and explores diverse beliefs and worldviews
- Fosters critical thinking and moral development
- Encourages environmental responsibility and sustainability
It is taught to all classes throughout the school and is divided into four key strands:
🧭 The Four Strands
- Moral and Spiritual Development
Children reflect on right and wrong, fairness, empathy, and personal well-being. They are supported in developing a strong sense of ethics and emotional literacy. - Equality and Justice
This strand explores issues like identity, diversity, rights, gender equality, and inclusion. Children learn to think critically and act with fairness and respect. - Belief Systems
Pupils learn about the major world religions and non-religious worldviews in a respectful and objective way. No one belief is promoted over another. This encourages respect, understanding and coexistence. - Ethics and the Environment
This strand develops awareness of environmental responsibility, sustainability, and care for our planet. Children are encouraged to become active stewards of the world around them.
🤝 Why It Matters
The Learn Together curriculum helps children become:
- Kind and reflective individuals
- Open-minded and respectful of others
- Confident in their own identity
- Thoughtful contributors to their community and the wider world
It supports our school’s ethos of equality-based, inclusive education for all, and prepares children not only for academic success, but for meaningful participation in a diverse society.
🔗 Learn More
You can find more detailed information about the Learn Together Curriculum on the Educate Together national website:
👉 www.educatetogether.ie/about/ethical-education/learn-together