Students Explore Modern Buddhism at Cambridge Centre Visit

On Wednesday 4 February, Year 2 Religion, Philosophy and Ethics A Level students visited the Cambridge Buddhist Centre to deepen their understanding of Triratna Buddhism, a movement founded in the UK in the 20th century.

During their visit, students spent time in the shrine room where they chose to take part in a meditation practice, experiencing a key element of Buddhist life first-hand. They also had the opportunity to question an order member about how commitment to Buddhism shapes daily life, gaining personal insights into faith in practice.

Discussions focused on the differences between Buddhism as a religion and as a secular philosophy or way of life, encouraging students to consider how belief systems can be interpreted and lived in diverse ways.

The group also learnt about “Right Livelihood” — a Buddhist ethical principle — and how it is reflected in businesses such as gift shops, second-hand clothing stores, and cafés linked to Buddhist communities.

The visit provided students with a valuable opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world experience, bringing their studies to life.