Dr Farah Ahmed PhD, FHEA, FCCT
Director of Research and Education
Assalamualaikum Wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu,
Welcome to Shakhsiyah Schools which are the outcome of over 20 years of strong niyyah leading to dedicated research, piloting, implementation, and development of an educational model drawn from Quran, Sunnah and classical Islamic educational philosophy.
Our schools were born out of the efforts of a group of home-educating Muslim mothers, who have been working collaboratively since the late 1990s to fulfil their Islamic duty as primary educators for their British-born children. Within a few years, this network of home-educating groups had grown to about a dozen. At this point, these groups merged, and two independent schools with an alternative and Islamic ethos known as Shakhsiyah Schools were established in 2002.
The foundation of Shakhsiyah Education is Ḥadīth Jibrīl, and the characterisation of education that we find there in terms of imān, Islam and ihsān. From this we have developed an understanding of what tarbiyah (upbringing), ta‘līm (acquisition of ilm) and ta’dīb (refinement through discipline) mean in a contemporary context.
We devised the seven principles of Shakhsiyah education, which enable us to translate these Islamic educational concepts into practical steps and actions in our Schools. We have pioneered the innovative development of the Prophetic pedagogy of dialogic halaqah to develop the unique Shakhsiyah Islamiyah of each child in our care.
Our alumni have gone on to graduate from esteemed institutions in Islamic Studies, Medicine, Arabic, International Relations Documentary Film, amongst other subjects. They have served their communities in university Islamic Societies, Islamic charitable institutions and as community project leaders.
Our focus is your child’s shakhsiyah and their complete character development which includes their holistic learning, including their academic excellence. We work closely with you in partnership to fulfill your parental responsibilities in the tarbiyah of your child. Come and join us and we look forward to a long term relationship where we hope to see your child join our alumni who are changing the world inspired by their Islamic way of life.
“Every year, every child in our school performs at the children’s presentation. They prepare, rehearse and amaze the audience with their public speaking skills, confidence and creativity. From age 7+ all students participate in the annual inventions fair bringing together historical inventions with modern innovation, design and technology extending their education beyond the classroom.”
Performing in front of an audience of upto 500 people, our students proudly showcase speech and language development through articulation in Arabic and English, as well as physical orientation through on stage movement and coordination. Themes in the past have ranged from ‘Our World, Our Future’, ‘Journey through the Seerah of the Prophet Muhammad (saw)’, ‘Qur’an, Our Beating Heart’ and ‘We are One Ummah.'”
The inventions fair at our school is a celebration of innovation, particularly highlighting the contributions of Muslim inventors throughout history. Students present their inventions and explore the rich heritage of Muslim innovators, such as Ibn al-Haytham's pioneering work in optics, or Ibn Battuta's travel writings that continue to inspire adventurers worldwide. It's a platform for young minds to showcase their inventive spirit and connect with the legacy of Muslim inventors who have left an indelible mark on the world.
"Every year, our vibrant community comes together for an unforgettable day of joy and excitement at ISF Fun Day! Our students indulge in delicious food, experience exhilarating rides, and explore an array of vibrant stalls bursting with color and creativity. It's a day where families and friends are filled with laughter, friendship, and unforgettable memories!"
Class visits to external places are much more than outings; they are transformative educational experiences. Whether it's exploring historical sites, delving into the wonders of nature, or engaging with cultural landmarks, our students embark on journeys that broaden their horizons and foster a deeper understanding of the world. These trips create lasting memories, encourage personal growth, and reinforce classroom learning in a real-world context. They are a cherished part of our holistic educational approach, shaping well-rounded individuals. Regular visitors to the school inspire children from authors to community service people as well as parents who come in to talk about career pathways
Performing in front of an audience of upto 500 people, our students proudly showcase speech and language development through articulation in Arabic and English, as well as physical orientation through on stage movement and coordination. Themes in the past have ranged from ‘Our World, Our Future’, ‘Journey through the Seerah of the Prophet Muhammad (saw)’, ‘Qur’an, Our Beating Heart’ and ‘We are One Ummah.'”
The inventions fair at our school is a celebration of innovation, particularly highlighting the contributions of Muslim inventors throughout history. Students present their inventions and explore the rich heritage of Muslim innovators, such as Ibn al-Haytham's pioneering work in optics, or Ibn Battuta's travel writings that continue to inspire adventurers worldwide. It's a platform for young minds to showcase their inventive spirit and connect with the legacy of Muslim inventors who have left an indelible mark on the world.
"Every year, our vibrant community comes together for an unforgettable day of joy and excitement at ISF Fun Day! Our students indulge in delicious food, experience exhilarating rides, and explore an array of vibrant stalls bursting with color and creativity. It's a day where families and friends are filled with laughter, friendship, and unforgettable memories!"
Class visits to external places are much more than outings; they are transformative educational experiences. Whether it's exploring historical sites, delving into the wonders of nature, or engaging with cultural landmarks, our students embark on journeys that broaden their horizons and foster a deeper understanding of the world. These trips create lasting memories, encourage personal growth, and reinforce classroom learning in a real-world context. They are a cherished part of our holistic educational approach, shaping well-rounded individuals. Regular visitors to the school inspire children from authors to community service people as well as parents who come in to talk about career pathways
As a parent i want to ensure my child is in a safe and happy Islamic environment, and Alhamdulillah at Shakhsiyah that is absolutely the case. Watching my child develop in every aspect of his life is an absolute pleasure and I owe the staff at Shakhsiyah so much gratitude.
I truly value the halaqah curriculum and how it is not only age appropriate but also vast and deep rooted in invaluable knowledge and research…Our children are being taught subjects that some adults have never heard of, it strengthens their identity as a Muslim and makes them proud of what they stand for. Eradicating the need to look up to others as idols
The school’s emphasis on character education has had a profound impact on my child’s behavior, attitude, and outlook towards life. I’ve witnessed firsthand how attending this school has contributed to my child’s personal growth, instilling values that will guide them not only in their academic pursuits but also in their deen.
Teachers and staff are genuinely committed to the well-being and success of each student. They create a warm and inclusive atmosphere where every child feels valued, respected, and encouraged to reach their full potential. This sense of belonging fosters confidence and self-esteem in students, enabling them to thrive academically and personally.
First Floor, 277 St Ann's Rd, London, N15 5RG
0208 802 8651
Cippenham Lodge, Cippenham Lane, Slough, SL1 5AN
0175 351 8000
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