Britain's first Hindu free school puts meditation on the timetable

The backers of Britain’s first Hindu free school said that the school day will begin at 8am with meditation and most learning will be over by lunch. The state-funded primary will be the second Hindu school in the country. This new school will, unlike Britain’s first Hindu primary, admit at least half intakes regardless of their faith background. Both schools are backed by the I-Foundation charity, which is seeking to open other schools, including a secondary to cater for Britain's 1.2 million Hindus. Backers of this school say it will expand with each new intake, providing 420 places for 4-11 year-olds by 2018. According to the project director of the school, Pradip Gajjar, this is a school which is not just adding meditation and yoga, but embedding these things are very attractive to people of other faiths and none. It also will provide modern IT facilities and a new vegetarian kitchen. The school will follow the national curriculum but with religious features including meditation and the recitation of Hindu scripture at the start of the day. The school day is in keeping with a Hindu belief that "learning in the morning hours is much more productive", Gajjar said. Free schools must admit 50% of pupils "without reference to faith". They can give priority to children of their own religion but cannot refuse others if they are under-subscribed. There is some unease over the prominent role of religion in the first wave of free schools, with critics saying it will lead to greater social segregation.

Reaction:
This is a good idea, to come with a new Hindu school which not only will accept Hindus but also student with other or non religion. I think every person can choose their own religion and there should be schools which help to develop this. Why only Christians or Catholics? We have to respect and accept other religion. So I do not think this will lead to social segregation. Because even if there is no Hindu school, these persons will continue believe and practice their religion.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2011/jan/07/first-hindu-free-school-unveils-plans