Minutes:
Councillor Bedi highlighted an issue that had arisen within her constituents, relating to time off from school for pupils to observe Diwali. Councillor Bedi pointed out that whilst it was common for Muslim pupils to take the day off school to observe Eid, Hindu students were often not aware that they were able to take a day off for Diwali. Pupils at Foxborough School appeared to be particularly affected.
It was confirmed to Councillor Bedi that each school would have its own policy regarding absences for religious observance. It was agreed that Johnny Kyriacou would raise the matter with Foxborough School at a forthcoming meeting of Head Teachers.
Councillor Bedi went on to highlight a forthcoming multi-cultural day, currently being planned by Slough’s Community Cohesion Group. It was hoped that SACRE, together with Slough’s schools, could be involved in the day, and it was agreed that further details of the day be brought to the next SACRE meeting.
Christine Isles confirmed that a previously held Harvest Day event, attended by all primary schools within Langley, was to hopefully become an annual event, and details of the day could be brought to a future meeting of SACRE.