Celebrating Diwali

These photos show the children taking part in celebrations of Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Light which is celebrated later this month. An Indian dance teacher came into school and the children were able to dress up in traditional costumes and learn a dance to celebrate the story of Diwali.

In the afternoon the children took part in art and craft activities. They made a candle a clay pot and did some Rangoli patterns on plates. Mrs Cook, who is a fantastic face painter, came in and painted the children's hands, which they loved.

Traditional Indian hand painting is done with henna and the patterns are very intricate. Mrs Cook made up her own designs, which are called Mendhi, and she used traditional face paint which looks very effective.

It was a great day and the children really enjoyed learning about a different culture and taking part in traditional art and craft activities.