On 24th September, 2025 the Year 5/6 children of St Columba CoE Primary School, Fareham, visited Al Mahdi Centre to learn more about Islam and the Mosque, as it relates to our current RE topic of Islam – Belonging. The key enquiry question is 'What does it mean to be a Muslim today? And key concept is 'belonging'. During their learning this half term, the children will be mainly focusing on Shahada and Salat.

We had a little play on their playground and then explored the different rooms in the Mosque and sat in their classrooms where young Muslims go on the weekend to learn more about their faith. We learnt further about the 5 pillars of Islam from the Imam, Sheikh Fazle Abbas. This linked to our learning, and we were very excited to share our knowledge!

We had a look at the Quran in Arabic, its translations and learnt that Arabic is read right to left, instead of left to right.The Imam showed us how Muslims pray, and we had a go ourselves!

Our students had a wonderful time visiting Al Mahdi Mosque - we got to learn about and be immersed in the Muslim faith, and the children really enjoyed themselves! The area was welcoming and respectful, staff were kind and patient with the children and we would definitely be interested in visiting again.

Bailey Jakeman
Class Teacher Y5/6