Sikh Studies
OUR ASPIRATION FOR EVERY LEARNER:
At Khalsa Primary we are building a whole new culture of deep understanding, confidence and competence in Sikh Studies – a culture that produces strong, secure learning and real progress. We are shaping confident, happy and resilient pupils who are inspired by the Sikh Faith. We are committed to working together to make a difference to every pupil so that they can use their learning to make a positive contribution to the world around them.
Focus on deepening pupils understanding:
At Khalsa Primary School we follow the Sikh Reht Maryada (Code of Conduct) which is authorized by Sri Akal Takht Sahib (The Supreme Seat of Authority for Sikhs). We endeavor to help every child whether from a Sikh background or not, to learn more about the Sikh Faith and to be inspired by the teachings found within Guru Granth Sahib Ji to help reinforce the Khalsa Values and inspire children to be outstanding global citizens.
Key stage 1
The principal focus in key stage 1 is to ensure that pupils develop confidence in knowing the names of some of the Gurus and their key teachings that are linked to the Khalsa Values and the 3 pillars of Sikhi. By the end of year 2, pupils should know the names and stories of up to 5 Gurus and their history.
Key stage 2
At key stage 2 pupils extend their understanding of the Sikh Gurus along with other aspects of Sikh history and philosophy. They explore deeper meanings behind the different historical stories and understanding the teachings that can be derived from them.
By the end of year 6, pupils should be fluent in reciting the names of the Gurus, name famous Sikhs from history, identify key teachings from the Gurus, recall key facts of Sikh history and recite specific Shabads (hymns) that have been learnt in class and/or in the Gurdwara assemblies.
WHAT WE DO TO ACHIEVE OUR ASPIRATIONS:
Pupils should be able to recall and apply key teachings from the Sikh Gurus in their day-to-day living.
Sikh Studies teaches Khalsa Primary School pupils to truly grasp the key teachings from the Guru in order to better themselves as individuals and to also help make a positive contribution to society through Seva (selfless service). Pupils at Khalsa Primary become independent, reflective thinkers, whose values not only liberate them in Sikh Studies, but also support them throughout their life.
WHAT WE DO TO MEASURE OUR SUCCESS:
We measure the success of our curriculum through the following opportunities:
- At the end of each academic year, a formal assessment test is conducted based on the topics that have been covered in each particular year group.
- Every year group is given a separate customized formal assessment test.
- Results of these tests are collated and analyzed to help plan topics for the following academic year and to find any areas that need to be revisited before the end of the year.
- Pupils discuss their learning; which includes discussion of their thoughts, ideas, processing and evaluations of work.
- Low stake assessments and quizzes are carefully planned into lessons.
- Teaching methods such as learning by questioning are used to identify strengths and areas that pupils still need to continue to work on.