At Khalsa School Calgary, Punjabi, Gurmat and Keertan are an important part of our students’ education from Kindergarten to Grade 9. Alongside the Alberta curriculum, these programs help students develop a connection to their Sikh faith, language, culture and heritage.
Our goal is to help students learn about the Sikh Gurus and their teachings while developing values such as kindness, respect, humility, honesty, equality and compassion. We encourage students to put these values into practice each day by caring for others, serving their community and treating everyone with respect.
Through these programs, students have opportunities to:
- Learn Punjabi: Develop their speaking, reading and writing skills and build confidence using the language.
- Explore Sikh History and Heritage: Learn about the lives and teachings of the Sikh Gurus, important events in Sikh history and the traditions that have shaped the Sikh community.
- Learn and Understand Gurbani: Explore the meaning and teachings of Gurbani and develop an appreciation for its spiritual significance.
- Practise Sikh Values: Understand the importance of kindness, humility, equality, sharing and helping others through everyday actions and Seva (selfless service).
- Learn Keertan and Traditional Music: Learn Shabads and develop their musical skills through Keertan, tabla and harmonium instruction, connecting music with the teachings of Gurbani.
- Build Confidence and Leadership: Work with classmates, share their learning, participate in performances and develop confidence through meaningful opportunities to contribute.
- Participate in School Traditions: Take part in the morning Ardaas and the singing of O Canada, which are shared with the school community over the public address (PA) system. Students also have opportunities to showcase their Keertan and musical learning during school assemblies throughout the year.
Celebrating Our Faith and Sharing Our Heritage
Students have opportunities to share their learning and talents beyond the classroom through school assemblies, special celebrations and community events. These experiences allow students to develop confidence, celebrate their heritage and connect with the wider community.
Two important annual events at Khalsa School Calgary are:
- Guru Nanak Dev Ji Celebration – November: An annual celebration honouring the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Students participate in the celebration and showcase their learning, including their understanding of Sikh teachings, culture and traditions, to the school and wider community.
- Nagar Kirtan – May: Students participate in this important Sikh community celebration, sharing in the spirit of devotion, Seva and community togetherness while celebrating and learning more about their faith and heritage.
These experiences help students understand that Sikh teachings extend beyond the classroom and can be reflected in their everyday actions, relationships and contributions to society.
Through Punjabi, Gurmat and Keertan, we strive to preserve our rich heritage while helping students grow into knowledgeable, caring, respectful and confident individuals who contribute positively to their school and community.
Preserving the Past… Preparing for the Future.