Ramadan Iftar

Barking Abbey School proudly hosted its third Ramadan Iftar, marking a significant milestone as the event expanded to include all year groups over two evenings. On Monday 17th March, students from Years 7 to 10 gathered to celebrate, followed by Years 11 to 13 on Wednesday 19th March. The two nights welcomed over 500 enthusiastic staff and students, many dressed in elegant traditional attire, reflecting the spirit of the occasion.

The evening commenced with beautiful Quranic recitations from students across all year groups. Their dedication and skill, whether in having memorised the Quran or approaching completion, left a lasting impression. A particularly heart warming moment was contributed by Saed, a Year 12 student and the first ARP student to join our Sixth Form, whose recitation highlighted his commitment and character. Another memorable speech was delivered by Masum Ahmed, a Year 11 ARP student, who spoke eloquently about the significance of Ramadan and the importance of gratitude during this blessed month.

We were honoured to host esteemed guests from Al Noor Mosque, including the renowned reciter Sheikh Munir Amour. Imam Abdillah Al-Nawfil further enriched the evening with a thought-provoking talk, drawing reflections from the story of Luqman and his sons. His words served as a powerful reminder of the importance of respecting our parents and guardians, extending this respect to our teachers and school staff.

As the call for Maghrib prayer signalled the breaking of the fast, attendees shared traditional Islamic appetisers of dates and flavoured water. Sheikh Munir Amour led the congregational prayers, followed by a delightful feast. The menu featured a delicious array of dishes, including Chicken Bhuna, Mughlai Paneer, Pilaf Rice, Poppadom's, and a variety of accompaniments. The warmth of the gathering was further sweetened with desserts generously contributed by students and staff.

Embodying the spirit of generosity, the school collaborated with the Global Relief Trust to raise funds for communities in need, raising an impressive donation exceeding £380. This act of charity was a testament to the compassion and unity within our school community.

The Barking Abbey Ramadan Iftar was not only a celebration of Ramadan but also a reflection of the values of unity, generosity, and community spirit that define our school. We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to making this event a memorable success. Here's to many more gatherings that strengthen our bonds and celebrate our shared values.