On Wednesday 28th February, Year 5 visited Bhaktivedanta Manor, near Watford, to take part in a full day of experiences relating to the Hindu faith. On arrival, the group were taken to the temple to gain an insight into what happens during one of the six daily prayer services. The students listened carefully to the music and     prayers and then our guide informed us of the importance of the ‘murtis’, as well as telling stories relating to the differing paintings and shrines on display.

The second activity involved learning more about the Hindu gods and goddesses. The guide was very impressed with the knowledge of the children, with some answering questions that she usually would expect secondary school children to know! The children also got the opportunity to dress up in traditional Hindu clothing, resulting in a colourful and smart looking Year 5.

Luckily, as the rain was still holding off, the children got the opportunity to take part in a highlight of previous tours, the oxen cart ride. Two groups were taken across, to the farm, on a cart pulled by two large oxen. This was followed by feeding the cows and learning about the food that the farm produces, before getting a return journey on the cart.

The final activity of the morning was a trip to see the ‘George Harrison Garden’, where the students were tasked with finding a selection of lyrics which were on different trees, posts and other features of the garden. We also found out the history of the building, which was donated by the famous former Beatle. By the time this task was completed there were quite a few ‘rumbling stomachs’ (from students and staff!), luckily, the food didn’t disappoint and a well-deserved lunch was consumed.

After lunch, there was just time for the students to choose to have either their face or hand painted with a range of different symbols, ranging from flowers to lightning bolts! We then thanked our hosts and boarded the coach home, with minds full of information and some memorable experiences.