Greenfield Community College, Sunnydale Campus’ young student philosophers visited the Hindu Temple in Newcastle recently, accompanied by Mrs Hackett and Ms Anderson.
Year 9, 10 and 11 students were lucky enough to spend the day at the ISKCON Hindu Temple discussing matters of philosophy and ethics with the Brahmin Priest, Kirtida Devi recently. Students questioned Kirtida on all manner of topics – including reincarnation, miracles, evil, abortion and animal rights. This face to face interaction with a representative of a faith community not only enriched their own understanding of challenging topics but also provided invaluable support for their GCSE studies.
The group were treated to a delicious ‘karma free’ vegetarian lunch, after which students were able to watch Kirtida perform the Hindu ‘arti ceremony’ for them. Kirtida demonstrated a range of musical instruments used in worship and some students even joined in with the drumming! The Young Philosophers then had some light relief after all their hard thinking and were shown the correct way to tie a sari – with a number trying this out for themselves. Applying face paints and bindis also proved a very popular activity.
This was a fabulous learning experience for everyone involved and a thoroughly pleasant day. Greenfield Community College (The Sunnydale Campus) wish to extend our thanks to all at the Temple for making us welcome and giving us such a memorable time.
