As we approach the end of our first half term in Prep 2, the children have demonstrated wonderful curiosity and respect through their Religious Education lessons. This term, we have been exploring stories and celebrations from a range of world religions, each offering a meaningful insight into the values people hold around the world. So far, we have learned about caring for nature through the Islamic story The Boy Who Threw Stones at Trees, about gratitude and sharing during the Christian celebration of Harvest, the importance of shelter and remembrance in the Jewish festival of Sukkot, and compassion through the Buddhist story of Prince Siddhartha and the Swan. Most recently, we have been learning about Diwali, the Hindu festival of light. 

Through these teachings, the children are beginning to understand that religion is not only about belief or tradition, but about how people choose to live, treat others, and care for the world around them. Each story has encouraged thoughtful conversations about kindness, respect, and community, helping the children recognise that, although people may have different customs, many of the values at the heart of these traditions are shared and universal. 

Our focus on Diwali has been especially poignant. Guided by classmates who celebrate Diwali with their families, the children learned about the symbolism of light and the story of Rama and Sita. We talked about how light represents goodness, hope, and courage, and how the festival reminds us that even in challenging times, light can prevail. The children reflected on how we, too, can be sources of light for one another by including others, offering help, and celebrating our differences. 

To deepen this understanding, each child crafted their own Diya lamp, carefully decorating it to reflect warmth and positivity. These creative moments were paired with thoughtful discussions about how learning from different religions helps us to better understand one another and build a compassionate classroom community. 

By exploring these faiths and stories, Prep 2 is not only gaining knowledge, but nurturing empathy and openness. The children are learning that when we listen to others’ traditions, we gain new ways of seeing the world, and new ways of shining our own light. 

Miss Le Feuvre

Prep 2 Teacher