As we approach the sacred month of Ramadan, we extend our warmest wishes to all our families observing this holy period. Ramadan is expected to begin this weekend, either on Friday, February 28, or Saturday, March 1, 2025, and will end around Sunday, March 30, 2025.

 

Eid Mubarak to all our families who are observing Ramadan!

 

School Closure for Eid: Please note that the school will be closed to all pupils and staff on Monday 31st March for an 'occasional day'*.

 

Understanding Ramadan: Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, a time when Muslims around the world fast from dawn until dusk. This practice is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is a period of spiritual reflection, increased devotion, and worship. While fasting becomes obligatory at the age of puberty, many children begin to fast before this age to join their families in the spirit of Ramadan.

 

Guidance for parents: We recognise that fasting can be challenging, especially for younger children, as it may affect their physical stamina and concentration levels. It is ultimately up to parents and families to decide whether their child should fast. We understand that breaking the fast before the correct time may be regarded as worse than not fasting at all by some children and parents. Here are some options parents might consider:

• Fasting during holidays and weekends: Pupils can fast during school holidays and weekends under the care and supervision of their families.
• Shorter periods of fasting: During the school week, pupils can take two shorter periods of fasting—from dawn until lunch, eat lunch at school, and then fast again after lunch until dusk.
• Selective fasting: Pupils can fast on some days but not others.

If you would like your child to fast, please discuss your wishes with your child's class teacher.  Pupils who are fasting during lunchtime may sit at the outside dining tables, away from other pupils in their age group who are eating lunch.  All children are expected to participate in all school activities during Ramadan.

 

We hope this information helps our school community support our Muslim families during this important time.

 

*Schools can also set 3 occasional holidays for students and staff, in consultation with their governing body. These should consider religious festivals besides Christmas and Easter and must come from the 198 days