Supporting teachers and pupils during Eid: A guide for schools

Eid is a significant event for Muslim staff and pupils, bringing joy, togetherness, and, let’s be honest, some very delicious food. But in the run-up to Eid, school life can feel a little hectic for Muslim teachers, especially for those balancing fasting, lesson planning, and food preparation! For school communities to thrive we must ensure the wellbeing of all staff, so offering understanding and support can go a long way in making everyone feel included and valued at this time of year.

Here’s a simple guide to what Eid is and how you can make a real difference to our Muslim colleagues and students during this time.

What is Eid?

There are two Eids in the Islamic calendar, and while they both involve celebrations, food, and family time, they have different meanings:

Eid al-Fitr ("Festival of Breaking the Fast") happens at the end of Ramadan, (a month where Muslims fast from dawn until sunset) and is a celebration with family and loved ones. Ramadan is a deeply spiritual and reflective time, focused on prayer, charity, and self-discipline. By the end of the month, people are running on low energy but high excitement as they prepare for Eid. Families wake up early for special Eid prayers, give to charity, and then look forward to enjoying food they have prepared to share with their loved ones. There are visits to family, sweet treats for days, and an overwhelming sense of gratitude.

Eid al-Adha ("Festival of Sacrifice") takes place about two months later and coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. This Eid is about giving and reflection, marking the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his willingness to sacrifice for his faith. Families share meals, dress in their best clothes, and spend quality time with loved ones.

For many Muslim staff and pupils, Eid is the time of year to reconnect with faith, family, and community. But because the Islamic calendar is lunar, the exact date of Eid is confirmed the night before, which can make school logistics a little tricky!

How schools can support staff and pupils during Eid?

A little thoughtfulness goes a long way in making sure everyone feels included and supported, and this should be reflected in your ED&I policy.  Here’s how you can help:

Be flexible with time off requests

When Eid is confirmed, Muslim staff and pupils might request time off with short notice. If possible, be understanding and accommodating - this is one of the most important days of the year the Muslim community. Schools may already plan ahead by checking potential Eid dates and anticipating leave requests to create a much more inclusive and respectful environment.

Acknowledge Eid and celebrate it

Even something as simple as saying "Eid Mubarak!" (which means "Blessed Eid") can make Muslim pupils and staff feel recognised. Schools can:

• Focus on Eid in assemblies or newsletters
• Put up a display or notice about Eid
• Encourage discussions in PSHE lessons about its significance

Meaningful recognition helps ensure Eid is celebrated and valued alongside all religious and cultural festivals. Acknowledging Eid in school life fosters a sense of belonging for Muslim pupils and staff, showing that their faith and celebrations are respected and included in the wider school community.

Consider those pupils who have been fasting before Eid

Before Eid al-Fitr, many Muslim pupils will be fasting for Ramadan. This can make afternoons tough, especially towards the end of the month when energy levels drop. Schools can help by:

• Letting pupils have a quiet space away from food at lunchtime
• Being mindful of energy levels in PE and other physical activities
• Avoiding high-stakes assessments towards the end of Ramadan if possible

Support Muslim staff with workload and wellbeing

Teachers who are fasting while juggling a full teaching schedule might benefit from extra support. Schools can help by:

• Keeping meetings short and to the point (especially in the afternoon)
• Checking in with staff and offering a bit of flexibility where possible
• Being mindful of workload—fasting staff might not have the same energy levels all day

Avoid key school events on Eid

Where possible, try not to schedule major events like internal exams, parents' evenings, or trips on Eid days. This can prevent clashes and unnecessary stress for pupils and staff who want to celebrate with family and friends. Schools that plan ahead show authentic inclusivity and respect for different faiths and traditions.

Encourage inclusion and learning

Eid is a great opportunity to promote cultural understanding. Schools can:

• Encourage pupils to share their experiences of Eid
• Invite local religious community leaders to speak in school
• Focus on Eid in PSHE lessons or assemblies to help pupils learn about different cultures
• Organise a small Eid activity for all pupils, like a craft session or discussion
• Consider providing a space for multi-faith prayer and reflection