Space for reflection
The Islamic holy month of Ramadan has almost begun and with upwards of 2 billion Muslims across the world, it certainly is worth us all taking a moment to consider the lessons contained within this practice. At the Prep there will be pupils and staff undertaking Ramadan and given the age of the pupils, for some it may be their first steps into this time of discipline and spiritual contemplation.
Creating space for reflection. Many people’s understanding of Ramadan is that fasting involves restraining from eating and drinking during daylight hours. However, there is a great deal more that takes place. For many Muslims it is a time to step away from all kinds of activities that can distract from spirituality, such as partaking in gossip, lying, arguing and even playing computer games. This is to allow for the space for prayer, reading the Qur’an, helping others and returning to the values of being a good Muslim. There are many ideas here that can apply to almost everyone – simplify life, remove distractions and return to your values.
The discipline developed can have a lasting effect, if you can withstand the temptations of daily life and forge an inner strength through fasting, then this strength can be applied to other areas of your life. We know the way the education system is designed demands a lot of our young people, especially teenagers during their public exams. Having the willpower to study steadily through your GCSEs and to prioritise revision during holidays, is not at all easy.
On Monday, a couple of Sixth Form students will be speaking in our weekly School Meeting to Key Stage 2 pupils about their experiences with Ramadan and then working with Muslim pupils on a presentation they will jointly give just ahead of Eid ul-Fitr. One of the many benefits of being a 3-18 school is our younger pupils learning from the older pupils. At the end of this term we will be gathering all pupils from Reception to Year 6 for our annual Easter Service led by Reverend McConnaughie. Creating moments as a community to be together, embracing all religions and cultures, is an essential part of who we are.
Another highlight of our week was brought to me by Mr Blom. Homework is often set for pupils over half-term and pupils in Mr Blom’s class were tasked to create a “Box of Memories” for Alem, the main character from Refugee Boy by Benjamin Zephaniah.
From meticulously crafted passports to heartfelt letters, the attention to detail and imagination of the pupils, it’s evident that a lot of thought, time, and creativity went into every piece.
It’s wonderful to see pupils enjoy a project so much, showing a direct link to their love of reading, which is something we champion at the Prep as often as we can – and then some!
And speaking of reading, Thursday 6th March is World Book Day, and our House Reading Competition, which means in next week’s blog we will be celebrating the wonders of reading. There will be a great deal of dressing up and this year’s theme is animal characters! Watch this space.
For some inspiration, here is a reminder of last year’s World Book Day fun!
Have a wonderful weekend,
Alice Goodfellow
