Ramadhan in schools

5 things teachers need to know

For many Muslims, Ramadhan is a time of joy, community and to recharge spiritually. Yet whether it’s choosing to pray at lunchtime or wear a hijab during these days, visible expressions of faith are often met with hostility - expressions of ‘Muslimness’ are treated as a threat. In this way, Ramadhan exposes the Islamophobia that persists throughout the rest of the year.

This resource supports teachers with how to create welcoming and inclusive spaces for their students and families during Ramadhan.

Young people and families have shared how Islamophobia in schools and negative perceptions of Muslims have led them to self-censor out of fear of judgement or even punishment. Policies like the Prevent Duty create a heightened surveillance of Muslim students, leaving them feeling isolated and stigmatised.

When young people feel safe bringing their whole selves to a space, it directly impacts their self-esteem, confidence and sense of belonging. This psychological safety affects not only wellbeing, it directly influences students’ engagement, attainment, and overall success in school.

We asked young people and their families what they would like their teachers to know, or do during Ramadhan. This resource shares five practical ways to create safe and inclusive spaces for students who choose to observe it.