Pupils fasting during Ramadan

The Muslim community is getting ready for the holy month of Ramadan.  In previous years some of the school’s pupils have wanted to fast, to signify their faith commitment.  Whilst the school respects the religious practices of all its community members, and we acknowledge that it may be expected of some pupils who have reached puberty, the practice of fasting poses a number of risks we wish to manage sensitively.

If a child fasts on school days, he or she will experience a number of physiological pressures.  Children are very likely to be dehydrated during the day; it is worth noting that they will still be expected to take part in all the usual curriculum lessons, including PE.  By not eating at lunchtime, their temperament may also become more fragile and prone to mood swings.  Some of the children who were fasting last year were seen to be uncharacteristically more argumentative, possibly as a result of the fasting.

The school has recently consulted a local Imam, as well as members of our local Muslim community for advice.  There is not an expectation for children to fast until they reach puberty.  The school does not encourage children who have not reached puberty to fast on school days, to avoid the health risks they would place on themselves. 

If any child wishes to fast, their parents must request permission from the Head Teacher before the start of the new term.  No child will be allowed to fast unless permission has been granted in advance.  To make a request please send an email to the school office for the attention of the Headteacher, giving details of your child’s name and class.  You will then receive a response by SchoolPing requiring your permission and consent to the following agreement.

Our arrangement is that children fasting will take part in all aspects of the school day, including PE lessons.  During the lunch hall time he/she will be supervised in a class bubble in a classroom by a teacher from your child’s year group.  When the rest of the class go out to play, he/she will join the other children. 

We look forward to your support on this matter, feel free to ask questions.