Year 8 attended Bhaktivedanta Manor over two days during our Lower School Trip Week in June. This is a sacred temple that is run by the Hindu community and they host schools from all of the counties each and every day. They have had thousands of visits over the years and continue to host schools and other festivals throughout the year.

"The trip was a huge success and we have had some lovely feedback from staff, students and parents and we will certainly be looking to run this annually. "

Mr J Bailey

The students attended a day of activities that started with a visit to the Shrine and listening to mantras and music being played, to give them a sense of what Hindu worship is like. They go on to explain what the instruments used are and how they are played.

Splitting the students up into two groups, half stayed inside the manor house and the others went outside.

Inside the house, they took part in a lecture/seminar which was covering the main aspects and beliefs of the Hindu culture. The students were expectational during this activity as they have completed a module at school on Hinduism and so the questions and level of knowledge was a delight to see from both the staff and the temple staff. They regarded us as one of the more knowledgeable and respectful groups they have seen. 

This session also involved a look at sacred objects used within the religion and a chance to use them and see how they work, such as a Puja tray and garland to wear around their necks. This also involved a dress-up section where the students could try on traditional Hindu attire and dress like their Gods/Goddesses. Everyone getting involved and really enjoying themselves during this activity. 

Meanwhile, the outside group had four smaller activities to explore. This involved:

• A tour of the Geroge Harrison gardens - a peaceful and tranquil walk around the gardens dedicated to George Harrison. If the students looked closely, they would see lyrics to famous songs and work out how they applied to real life.
• A tour of the greenhouses and how they look after certain plants used within their worship
• A cart ride pulled by Oxen/Bulls from the sacred cow sanctuary. Cows are considered sacred in Hinduism and these animals are treated like royalty. The short cart ride acts as exercise for these enormous creatures, who nearly weigh in at a Tonne. 
• Lastly, the ride drops us off at the cow farm where we can see the other cows within the sanctuary. This was an opportunity to learn about why they are sacred and how they are looked after. Also, to pet and feed these majestic creatures. These animals have an exceptional life and are looked after to the highest of standards. 

After all of the activities had been completed by both groups, we all reconvened for lunch, which appears to be have been the hit of the trip and the high expectations were met by all. Lunch was provided for all who attended (roughly 124 each day) and this consisted of a traditional vegetarian curry with rice, crackers and a home-made bread. The staff provided everyone with plentiful portions and continually rotated around the hall so all staff and students had the opportunity for 2/3 portions of everything. Following the curry, they then provided everyone with portions of chips to ensure that all had something to eat and that they all had the opportunity to try traditional food first. 

The last activity following the lunch was a gift shop and some extended time to try on the clothes for those who missed the chance earlier in the day. 

We were also delighted to receive some great feedback from the Manor,  and would like to thank all the students that attended on their excellent behaviour.

"We were saying how happy we were to see everyone eat so well. Overall the students asked lots of questions and showed a lot of open mindedness about faith and beliefs which is lovely for us as well."

ISKCON Bhaktivedanta Manor - Hare Krishna Temple