Class 9 Trip
On Friday 26th June, amid a heatwave with temperatures reaching 37°C, Class 9 boarded an air-conditioned coach and travelled to the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden, northwest London. This visit complemented their World Religions Main Lesson, during which they have been exploring Hinduism as one of the world’s oldest surviving religions and part of the ancient belief systems they study in Class 9.
During the visit, students observed the morning prayers and the traditional arti ceremony, a ritual involving light offered before the deities. They also explored a small exhibition within the mandir, which deepened their understanding of Hindu beliefs, practices, and the far-reaching influence Hinduism has had across cultures and traditions.
Students reflected on the experience using words such as 'interesting, impressive, informative, inspiring, peaceful, powerful, beautiful and enlightening', to describe their visit.
It was a memorable day that greatly enriched their classroom learning and offered valuable insight into a living faith tradition.
Alex Gearing and Angela Bourke
Upper School Teachers
