Diwali Celebrations Illuminate Jack Hunt School and Beyond
Jack Hunt Secondary School, part of Peterborough Keys Academies Trust celebrated the Diwali Festival within their school on November 13th 2003.
Approximately 3% of their students identify as Hindus and Sikhs and Diwali will be celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs globally on Sunday, 12th November to 16th November 2023.
Ms Sidra Hussain, Teacher of ICT, Computer Science and RPE International Education Coordinator said: “We marked Diwali at Jack Hunt School on November 13th through specific learning about the cultural significance of the Diwali Festival and about the Hindu’ beliefs and practices and there will be a special menu served in the dining halls.”
In a radiant display of cultural unity, Jack Hunt School concluded its Diwali celebrations for this year, leaving behind a tapestry of shared experiences and understanding. Although approximately 3% of the school's students identify as Hindus and Sikhs, the entire school community came together to commemorate Diwali, a festival observed globally by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs from November 12th to 16th, 2023.
Ms Sidra Hussain, Teacher of Computing, and RPE International Education Coordinator, shared the school's inclusive approach to honouring Diwali. She said: "We marked Diwali at Jack Hunt School on November 13th through specific learning about the cultural significance of the Diwali Festival and about Hindu beliefs and practices. Additionally, there was a special menu served in the dining halls."
What makes Jack Hunt School's Diwali celebration even more special is that these resources were not confined to the school premises; they were shared and used by our overseas link schools. This global exchange of knowledge and celebration added a unique dimension to the festivities, connecting students across borders and fostering a sense of shared cultural appreciation.
As the International Education Coordinator, Ms Hussain emphasised the importance of such celebrations in a school setting. "Our goal is to create an inclusive environment that celebrates the diverse backgrounds of our students. Diwali provides a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and learning," she remarked.
The school's commitment to fostering cultural awareness extended beyond the classroom, with a special Diwali menu served in the dining halls. This culinary gesture added a sensory dimension to the celebration, allowing the entire school community to savour the flavours associated with Diwali and creating a festive atmosphere throughout.