Last week, Newstead Wood School hosted an Inter-faith Iftar for over 200 guests to join together and celebrate their diverse community.
Iftar is the fast-breaking evening meal taken by Muslims during Ramadan. The event was an opportunity to celebrate this period whilst also being open to those of all faiths, with the aim of promoting understanding and inclusivity and celebrating different cultures and traditions.
Alongside members of the local community, the Iftar was attended by various special guests. These included Yusuf Chambers who spoke about his conversion to Islam as well as his humanitarian work, whilst Tayeeba Ahmed gave a captivating poetry performance.
Ensuring the event was a success, local businesses donated generously, providing food and decorations. Parents also donated pieces to the auction, including a silver coin from the Umayyad Caliphate that has huge historical Islamic significance.
Alan Blount, Headteacher at Newstead Wood School, said:
“Last week’s Iftar was a fantastic event which celebrated our wonderful and diverse school community. We are grateful to our speakers in particular who provided some thought-provoking and insightful contributions and added to the success of the day.
“I would like to thank our students and families for their hard work organising the event, as well as of course all our sponsors without whom it would not have taken place. As we look to the future, we very much look forward to hosting our Iftar again next year as well as other events which allow us to bring our school and wider community together.”