Welcome to our Gurmat Class, where we aim to inspire and educate the future Sikhs of Scotland through fun learning. We would like to share with you the variety of experiences and activities that our young Sikhs are involved in. Our class takes place weekly on Monday evenings from 6pm to 8pm. When you first walk through the doors of the Gurdwara you will feel the energy in the air, hear the laughter and chatter of the children (and adults), and not forgetting the delicious smell of the langar (food) (and that’s not only, the chips and pasta!!). The class is first started with a few minutes of simran (basic meditation) to help set the ambience and settle the mind. Most parents also enjoy this, with the beautiful sounds of hymns vibrating through the hall. We then split into our Paath (Sikh prayer) classes where the children our taught different ‘Banis’ (prayers) in small groups by dedicated Sewadaars (volunteers).
The second part of the class, children are taught Sikh history. The classes are organised according to age/knowledge, with particular emphasis on how to put into practice the Sikh teachings. We encourage our children to strengthen their skills by combining what they have learnt with essay writing, presentations, group work and sharing knowledge with their peers and the wider congregation. This helps builds self-confidence in our children and is invaluable throughout their education life and future careers.
The class is ended with all the children leading the final hymn singing and closing ceremony, where the children have the opportunity to take part in key aspects of serving the wider congregation. Within our Gurmat Class we recognise the need for our children to have fun while learning. We run various activities through the year, from celebratory events and picnics to trips and outdoor events. We also host speakers form other organisations that will help expand the knowledge of the volunteers and children. Come join us on Monday evenings.