2013.01.30 Read about the Sikh Gurdwara Temple trip.

Coates Primary School
The Fold
Coates
Peterborough
Cambs
PE7 2BP
Headteacher: Mrs J M Tomlins
Tel: 01733 840527
Fax: 01733 840322
E-Mail: office@coates.cambs.sch.uk
Website: www.coatesprimaryschool.info
25th January 2013
Dear Parents/Carers,
We have an exciting opportunity to take Years 1 – 6 to the Sikh Gurdwara Temple
in Fengate in Peterborough on Thursday 7th February 2013. We have secured some
funding for this, therefore the trip will be free to children.
It has been decided that the reception class and preschool will not take part as it is
felt they would be a little young to appreciate the visit.
We will leave school at 9.15 am and then return to school for 12.45 pm. The children
will have their lunch upon return to school and they will have a snack mid morning
at the Gurdwara. Therefore lunch arrangements will be as normal for the day.
It will be a chance for the children to have a look around the beautiful Sikh temple
and for them to gain some understanding of another culture which is part of their
Religious Education curriculum.
When visiting the Gurdwara we would obviously very much like to respect their
beliefs and we list below some guidance that they have given us:
‘Be modestly attired’. - we request that attendees do not wear skirts or
shorts.
Cover your head. - ideally a headscarf, handkerchief or caps.
Remove your shoes. - there is a dedicated area for shoes. Socks can be
kept on.
Wash hands and feet. - This is not mandatory.
Bow before the Guru Granth. – This is not mandatory but can be done if
the children would like to do this as a sign of respect.

Offer any donation such as flowers, food items or money. - This is not
Mandatory and rather than children bringing money the school will make
a donation.
Sit quietly on the floor with your legs crossed facing Sri Guru Granth Sahib
Ji. - Attendees will be instructed during the visit. If attendees find it
difficult to cross their legs then they can sit is any position so long as their
feet DO NOT point towards the Guru (the reasons will be explained
during the visit).
Enjoy a meal from the free kitchen. - This will be not be available, however
crisps and a soft drink will be offered. Tea will be available for the
adults.
As you can see, the main request is that the children cover their heads with a
headscarf or handkerchief/cap on the day as a mark of respect and that girls
wear trousers if possible. We assume shorts won’t be worn anyway due to the
cold weather!
If for any reason you DO NOT wish your child to take part in the visit, we would
ask that let the school office know and make provision to educate your child at
home that day, as the majority of school staff will be on the trip. Children not
going on the trip should be in school by 1.00 pm to start the afternoon session as
this will be a normal school afternoon.
Yours sincerely
Mrs J Tomlins
Headteacher