Greenacres Primary Academy

Ramadan in term time

Why is Ramadan important for  some of our students?
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, requires Muslims to fast between dawn and sunset by abstaining from eating and drinking during daylight hours.
Fasting in this month is a compulsory duty upon all Muslims and is a time for spiritual reflection and by practicing self-restraint. Although this isn't expected to be completed by children under the age of puberty, we support our older children who wish to participate, where possible, to keep their fasts. 

We provide our Year 6 children who are wishing to fast, with a quiet room, away from the dining hall, to give them time and space to reflect on their fasting. We do not allow children to fast on PE days or statutory test days, e.g. SATs tests.

How can parents help with Ramadan during term-time?
Helping your child to organise themselves.
Try to plan your schedule and meals ahead of time in order to make sure you get the nutrients, hydration and rest you need.
Eat Suhoor (pre-dawn) meal just prior to dawn. This meal is very important during exam times although try not to overeat. Try to eat foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates and proteins as well as fruit.
During the early evening have a healthy and balanced meal. Try to have a least two glasses of water and avoid caffeinated drinks like Coke as they will be dehydrating.
Try to eat fruit and nuts for dessert rather than chocolates and sugar. This will help you organise your sleep.
Sip on water throughout the evening and try to drink the recommended 8 glasses.

How can students help themselves?
You must be organised during Ramadan and you must balance your eating, sleeping and school work.
Try to drink the recommended 8 glasses of water between dusk and dawn to stay hydrated.
Try and organise yourself so that you are getting the sleep that you need. This may mean resting straight after school and doing your home learning in short bursts.