Radha Krishna Temple in Stratford welcomed year four pupils from Ranelagh Primary School as teachers aim to expand pupils\u2019 knowledge of community cohesion, individuality and globalisation.<\/p>\n
The temple, which was founded in 1967, opened its doors to teach pupils about Hindu gods Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, Durga and Ganesha.<\/p>\n
Executive headteacher Angela Tapscott said it was important for children to learn aboout religion to foster an environment of tolerance.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe teaching of religion and belief are an important part of the curriculum at Ranelagh Primary School, as they help to encourage understanding, tolerance and unity,\u201d she said. \u201cThe Leadership Management Team and staff recognise that these subjects help to establish the children\u2019s personal values, their role as future citizens in a multi-faith society and to challenge racism and discrimination.\u201d<\/p>\n
In line with the trip\u2019s aim to encourage understanding between different faiths, pupils were taught the importance of tranquility and listening, as they sat peacefully in the temple and enjoyed artwork depicting Hindu gods in the visit on February 5.<\/p>\n
They also learnt the importance of Ganesha\u2019s elephant head, whose fan-like ears and small mouth are thought to encourage him to listen to teachings in his role as lord of success and destroyer of evil.<\/p>\n
But the visit wasn\u2019t all silence, as pupils also got a chance to ring the temple\u2019s bell, which calls Hindus to prayer.<\/p>\n
Teacher Susie Walsh, who joined pupils on the visit, said pupils were keen to question temple representatives about Hinduism.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe pupils were all very well behaved, they listened attentively, were quiet and respectful and asked relevant questions,\u201d she said. \u201cIt is very important that the children at Ranelagh are able to learn about the different cultures and religions in the Stratford community.<\/p>\n
\u201cRanelagh Primary School would like to thank the Radha Krishna Temple for inviting our pupils.\u201d<\/p>\n
The temple is open every day and encourages community cohesion with language classes teaching English as well as offering residents the chance to learn Hindi and Gujarati.<\/p>\n
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