frequently asked questions
What are the school hours?
Al-Baseerah Madarasa operates Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Weekend Quran classes run on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
What age groups do you accept?
We accept students from ages 5 to 16 years old. Our Early Years program is for ages 5-7, Primary for ages 7-11, and Secondary for ages 11-16.
Is the school registered and inspected?
Yes, Al-Baseerah Madarasa is fully registered with the Department for Education and undergoes regular inspections. Our latest inspection report is available on request.
What is the fee structure?
Fees vary by year group. Please contact our admissions office for the current fee schedule. We offer sibling discounts and financial assistance for families in need.
Do you provide transportation?
We offer a school bus service covering major areas in the city. Routes and pickup times are available from the school office. Additional fees apply for transportation.
What is your Quran memorization program?
Our Hifz program allows students to memorize the Quran alongside their academic studies. Students typically memorize 1-2 pages daily with qualified Hafiz teachers. Full Quran completion usually takes 3-5 years.
Are meals provided?
Yes, we provide halal lunch daily. The menu is varied and nutritious, prepared in our on-site kitchen. Students may also bring packed lunches from home.
What is your behavior policy?
We follow an Islamic approach to discipline focusing on positive reinforcement, clear expectations, and restorative practices. Our full behavior policy is available in the parent handbook.
Do you offer after-school activities?
Yes! We offer various after-school clubs including Quran circle, Arabic calligraphy, sports, coding, and arts & crafts. Activities run from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
How do you communicate with parents?
We use multiple channels: our parent portal app for daily updates, email newsletters, WhatsApp groups for urgent messages, and termly parent-teacher conferences.
What qualifications do your teachers have?
All our teachers are qualified professionals with relevant degrees and teaching certifications. Islamic studies teachers hold Ijazah in Quran and Islamic sciences from recognized institutions.
Is there a uniform requirement?
Yes, students must wear the school uniform which reflects Islamic modesty. Boys wear white thobe or navy trousers with white shirt. Girls wear navy abaya with hijab. Uniform can be purchased from the school.
How do you handle special educational needs?
We have a dedicated SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) and provide support for students with learning differences. Individual Education Plans are created for students who need additional support.
What is your safeguarding policy?
Student safety is our priority. All staff undergo DBS checks and safeguarding training. We have designated safeguarding leads and follow strict child protection procedures. Our full policy is available on request.
Do you accept mid-year admissions?
Yes, we accept students throughout the year subject to availability. Mid-year admissions follow the same process as regular admissions with an assessment to determine appropriate class placement.
What Arabic curriculum do you follow?
We use a combination of Al-Arabiyyah Bayna Yadayk and custom materials developed by our Arabic department. Students learn Modern Standard Arabic with emphasis on Quranic vocabulary.
How do you prepare students for exams?
Students in Years 10-11 prepare for GCSEs in core subjects. We provide revision sessions, past paper practice, and exam technique workshops. Our results consistently exceed national averages.
Is there a parent involvement program?
Absolutely! We encourage parent involvement through our PTA, volunteer opportunities, parent workshops, and classroom helper programs. Parents are partners in their children's education.
What happens during Ramadan?
During Ramadan, we adjust our schedule to accommodate fasting students. We offer special Ramadan programs including Taraweeh training, Quran intensive sessions, and iftar gatherings.
Do you offer summer programs?
Yes, we run a Summer Quran Intensive program in July-August. This is an excellent opportunity for students to accelerate their memorization or strengthen their Tajweed skills.
How can I schedule a school tour?
School tours are available by appointment. Please contact our admissions office at admissions@albaseerah.school or call during office hours to schedule a visit.
What is your policy on mobile phones?
Mobile phones must be switched off and stored in lockers during school hours. Smart watches with communication features are also not permitted during lessons.
Do you celebrate Islamic occasions?
Yes, we mark all major Islamic occasions including Eid ul-Fitr, Eid ul-Adha, Mawlid un-Nabi, and the beginning of Ramadan with special programs and celebrations.
What sports facilities do you have?
We have a multi-purpose sports hall, outdoor playground, and access to nearby sports facilities for swimming and athletics. PE is taught separately for boys and girls.
How do I pay school fees?
Fees can be paid termly or monthly via bank transfer, standing order, or through our online payment portal. Payment plans are available for families who need flexibility.