Ramadan
Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, commences on Wednesday May 16th and will run until the Eid festivities of the first day of the new month of Shawwal, known as Eid Al-Fitr, on Friday June 15. Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, doing good deeds and spending time with family and friends. The fasting is intended to help teach Muslims self-discipline, self-restraint and generosity. It also reminds them of the suffering of the poor, who may rarely get to eat well.
Many of our Muslim pupils will fast during Ramadan and will not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. They may also require to pray during the day and to attend the Mosque on Fridays.
In St. Ninian’s we support the pupils’ observance by providing a rest/prayer room for pupils, one for boys (Mathematics 1) and another for girls (English 1), which will available during our lunch break
These rooms will be supervised by senior pupils supported by our staff. Pupils are aware that by nominating these rooms for their use we are providing them with the opportunity for spiritual contemplation and that their conduct within the rooms should be reflective of the spirit in which this space is provided.
Parents should note that if pupils are attending the Mosque on Fridays for prayer then parents are required to provide written confirmation to Pastoral Support staff of ‘authorised absence’
A note is also required if pupils are unable to participate fully in PE due to increased risk of fatigue during their fast. Pupils should still bring kit and are permitted to undertake less strenuous physical activity such as gentle exercise or walking.
We offer our best wishes and support to our young people and their families during their spiritual journey.
Please contact me at the school if you require further information.
NS Macdonald (Depute Head Teacher)
