St James School, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, is one of the most diverse in Exeter, with an incredibly rich community. On Wednesday 4 May, which coincided with the last day of Eid, students were invited to wear traditional dress that represented their culture.

There were opportunities for students to discuss the cultures represented by their costumes and what it means to them and their family. Cultures represented included Mexican, Afghani, Indian, Sri Lankan, Libyan, Saudi Arabian, Egyptian and many others. In addition, students and families who celebrated Ramadan and Eid received a small gift from the school.

Lindsay Skinner, Headteacher at St James said: We are so incredibly proud of our students and diverse community, we think this is part of what makes us special and so it felt completely natural to celebrate this by sharing some of the traditions from the many cultures represented within our school.

“St James as part of the Ted Wragg Trust believes in the power of education to transform lives, strengthen communities, to make the world a better place.”

Lindsay Skinner, Headteacher

And the activities were welcomed by parents. Abdallah ِAlharbi, a parent tweeted: ‘What a kind gesture from my son Mohammed’s school. Thank you very much for your hard work to provide students with opportunities to learn about the different cultures. St James School is one of the most diverse schools in Exeter. #EidMubarak’

Parent, Naji Almotarie contacted the school to say: ‘Thank you, St James School, for the community activities. You are pioneers in your work and make everyone happy.’

In keeping with the tradition of Eid, students decided to raise money for those in need. Holly Kirkbride, Assistant Headteacher said: “As part of the day students organised a cake stall with a difference. Sweet treats and cakes from their cultures were available to buy, giving all students the opportunity to try something new. As students enjoyed these treats the prefects were on hand to explain the origin of the goodies. This proved very popular and over £100 was raised for the charity Children of Peace. This charity works with children caught up in the conflict in Gaza. It is a non-political charity that aims to make the lives of all the children, no matter their background, better.”