Theme: Islam and IslamophobiaMaddressah Al Marwatain - Widden Primary School
Madressah Al Marwatain delivers Islamic education to Muslim children aged 5 - 15 years. Currently there are 160 students from a variety of ethnic backgrounds. Classes are held from 4.45pm to 6.45pm Monday to Friday during school term and vary during holidays. The Madressah is a voluntary and independent establishment that is managed, administered and co-ordinated by dedicated volunteers. Children attending the Maddressah come not only from Widden School itself, but also from other areas, including: Longlevens, Barnwood, Hempsted and Cheltenham. For more information, visit Widden Primary School website www.widden.ik.org
Salma Piperdy interviewed the Principal, Qari Rafiq PatelHow is this Madressah different from more traditional ones?This Madressah abides by Gloucestershire County Council rules and regulations, i.e. child protection, child safety, friendly atmosphere, family values, openness (parents or other adults' can come in anytime) consider children's opinions, playtime!! What training do Madressah teachers need?Islamic University - either in UK or Abroad. Study Islamic theology for 3 years Basic, or 5 -10 years, Advanced. How do you group the children?By their ability: levels of learning to read Arabic text and Qur'anic Studies.What are your teaching Methods? Are they different for younger children?Our methods vary from learning through sight vocabulary, to learning through play & colouring; from learning in small groups, to reciting from memory.Are there any exams or certificates that the children receive?We have an award scheme. Exams - designed like school exams on performance, are done throughout the year, and we also have end of year assessments. There are trophies given out at the end of the Madressah year for: - Achievement Good Behaviour, Attendance, and boys and girls 1st, 2nd, 3rd prizes. These are for each class.Do you think 4.30pm-6.45pm is a long day for a 5 year old?Flexibility - 1 hour session available to new beginners or younger child. Older children can bring homework & staff, older pupils, assist if needed. Can also have access to computer / Internet.Do the Madressah children do any activities/outings as a group?We promote the social services holiday play scheme, which runs on the same site as the Madressah. We also work closely with Gymnation.
Student Homairan Kazi (age 14) says this about Maddressah:"Being a student at Madressa-Al-Marwatain makes me feel privileged due to its teachers. Every student who attends if provided with a red book bag on which is the Madressah logo. The books that we learn from are specially sent from South Africa. This Madressah is very unique and different in many ways, such as prize giving, playtime and homework help"For any further information, please contact the Principal - Qari Rafiq Patel on 07969 709895 or email him at rafiqpatel@hotmail.com |
|
|
Go to: |
|
|
|
|