Ramadan Mubarak

Some of our students and staff will start a month of fasting from 5 May 2019 and will end around 5 - 6 June 2019. This year, Eid al-Fitr festivities will be on either 5 or 6 June 2019. We know that this is a special time for them and their families.  At this time of year, they may go without food and drink for a long time and, for students, this will also be during the time they will be taking exams. They must be prepared for this by making sure they have food of good nutritional value in the pre-dawn meal before they fast.

A real strength of St Martin's is the diversity of faith groups represented in both our student and staff population. This is something quite special at our school.  Whilst some students and staff will fast and need time and space to practice their faith, please remember that the Dining Plaza will remain open and most people will continue to eat and drink throughout the day.

During the school day students who are fasting should avoid running or standing around in the sun. Instead find some shade and occupy themselves in low energy activities. In the same way they must also wear the correct school uniform. Obviously when it is very hot, they will be allowed to remove their jumpers and blazers.

When it is very hot it is important that students, who are observing Ramadan, remain hydrated but without food or drink. This is a challenge which most of them will have experienced having fasted in previous years.  Small things like washing their hands with cold water or running cold water over wrists will help keep them cool. This should be done at break/lunchtimes. We do not want students constantly out of lessons unless it is absolutely necessary.

The real significance of the month of Ramadan is about self-discipline and working on improving your character. It is not just about going without food for long hours, it is working on values such as honesty, truthfulness, charity, forgiveness, respect and these are the values that this school upholds.

Our school community will be focusing on Ramadan in tutor time this week in order to discover more about the Muslim faith and its practices.  We will also have a space in school for students to go to for quiet and for prayer Lab 1 or B6. The rooms will be supervised by Ms Hammoudi and Ms Addo.

We wish our students staff and families a Happy Ramadan.

For more information, please go to Ramadan and You.