Dear Parents and Carers,

This year, Christians and Muslims across the world will begin observing Lent and Ramadan on the same day (18 February 2026).

With Lent and Ramadan running alongside one another, this period offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on what unites us, what we share, and what we can learn from each other as a school community. We would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the importance of both observances for many members of our community and to outline the arrangements in place to support students during this time.

We value the diversity of faiths and beliefs within our school and are committed to working in partnership with families to support students in observing Ramadan and Lent while continuing to engage fully and safely in their learning. We recognise that the day-to-day experiences of students fasting during Ramadan may differ from those of students observing Lent. If you wish to discuss the wellbeing or pastoral needs of your child during this period, please do not hesitate to contact the school.
We are aware that, for religious reasons during Ramadan, some students may not be able to listen to music in certain lessons. In these circumstances, students will be expected to remain in lessons and should bring their own AirPods, headphones, or earplugs so that they can engage appropriately with learning activities without listening to music. Students will not be permitted to leave lessons for this purpose, as this would raise health, safety, and supervision concerns.

To support students who wish to pray during the school day, the Prayer Room and Stage Room will be available at break time, lunchtime, and after school. In addition, whole-school assemblies will help educate students about the purpose and meaning of Ramadan and Easter, supporting understanding and mutual respect across our community.

As always, we remain committed to being respectful, inclusive, and supportive of all faiths within our school. If you have any questions or specific concerns regarding these arrangements, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Thank you for your continued support.

Message from the Performing Arts Team:

• For students observing Ramadan, the Physical Education and Performing Arts department have established the following protocols to ensure continued learning and safety:
• Advance Notification: Students who feel unable to participate in practical activities must inform their teacher at the start of the lesson.
• Attendance: Students must remain in the lesson for the full duration; they are not permitted to leave the room or work elsewhere.
• Alternative Provision: Students not participating will be assigned a specific independent project by their teacher. To facilitate focused work in a practical environment, these students must bring their own earphones or ear defenders.
• Eligibility: These adjustments are strictly reserved for students actively observing Ramadan. All other students are expected to participate fully in practical lessons.

To ensure a smooth transition into the lesson, please follow this flow:

1. Inform the teacher of your fast before the lesson begins.
2. Ensure you have your earphones/ear defenders ready.
3. Receive your assigned independent project from the teacher.
4. Work quietly within the classroom and submit your progress at the end of the period.