Weekends are often seen as a time for relaxation and leisure activities, but for many Muslim families in London, it is also a time for education and spiritual growth. This is thanks to the vibrant weekend madrasahs that have become a popular option for parents who want their children to receive Islamic education in addition to their regular schooling.
Madrasahs have been part of the Muslim community for centuries, providing children with religious teachings and helping them build a strong connection with their faith. However, traditional madrasahs were often limited by the availability of resources and teachers, making it challenging to offer classes outside of weekday evenings. This changed with the emergence of weekend madrasah madrasahs which run on Saturdays and Sundays, catering to busy school schedules and giving more flexibility for families.
One such example is the Al Madina Weekend School located in East London. The school offers a diverse curriculum that focuses on Islamic studies as well as Quranic recitation. Sister Salma Khan* has been sending her two daughters to this madrasah since they were five years old. She shares that “the structured approach and experienced teachers make learning Islam fun and engaging” for her children.
The curriculum in these weekend madrasahs not only covers Islamic knowledge but also teaches practical skills like memorization techniques, public speaking, leadership development, and critical thinking – all in line with Islamic principles. These classes aim to create well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to society while staying true to their faith.
Aside from structured classes, many weekend madrasahs also offer extracurricular activities like sports events, field trips, community service projects or even art competitions – further cultivating creativity among students while connecting them with peers from other mosques around the city.
For teenagers struggling with identity issues or looking for positive role models within an increasingly secular society; youth groups offered by some weekend schools become safe spaces where real-life concerns are openly discussed while exploring Islamic solutions, empowering them to live their faith proudly.
The vibrant and diverse Muslim community in London has resulted in a variety of weekend madrasahs to choose from. Some cater specifically to Arabic speaking children – providing language immersion programs – while others focus on teaching the Quran with tajweed (proper enunciation) or tailored classes for students with special needs.
London’s diverse demographic also means that these weekend madrasah welcome all races and nationalities, providing an environment rich with other cultures without compromising on core Islamic beliefs. Furthermore, weekend madrasahs are often more affordable than weekday ones, making it accessible for families from all financial backgrounds.
In this bustling city where time is of the essence and life moves at lightning speed, weekend madrasahs have become vital learning havens for young Muslims. These schools not only equip them with Islamic knowledge but also instill values and skills that will serve as their guiding principles throughout life – making weekends not just about leisure but growth as well.
