If you have been looking for Quran classes for your child, you may have come across the term “English-medium madrasa”. But what does it actually mean, and how is it different from a traditional madrasa? This guide explains what parents can expect.
What does “English-medium” mean?
“Medium” refers to the language of instruction: the language teachers use to explain lessons. In an English-medium madrasa, teachers explain Quranic and Islamic topics in English.
It is important to understand what this does not mean. An English-medium madrasa is not an English-language school. The subjects remain the same as any good madrasa: Quran reading, Tajweed, Islamic studies, duas and Islamic manners. The Quran itself is always read and recited in Arabic, exactly as it was revealed. English is simply the language used to teach, explain and discuss.
Why English-medium instruction helps many children
For many Muslim children today, English is the language they think and learn in. This is especially true for children who:
- attend English-medium, international or private schools;
- speak English as their main language at home;
- live abroad, or have returned to Sri Lanka after living overseas;
- find it difficult to follow lessons taught in other languages.
When these children are taught in a language they do not fully understand, they may learn to recite without really understanding the meaning or the lessons behind it. Learning in English helps them grasp concepts clearly, ask questions confidently and connect what they learn to their everyday lives.
The Quran is always recited in Arabic. English is used to explain, so children understand what they read and why it matters.
What children learn in an English-medium madrasa
A well-structured English-medium Quran madrasa covers the same core areas as any quality Islamic education:
Quran reading
Children learn to recognise Arabic letters, join them, and read the Quran fluently through guided practice.
Tajweed
Students learn the rules of correct pronunciation and recitation. Explaining these rules in English often helps children understand them more quickly.
Islamic studies
Essential beliefs, the pillars of Islam and iman, the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and stories of the Prophets.
Duas and daily Sunnah
Everyday duas, their meanings, and simple Sunnah practices that children can apply at home and school.
Islamic character and manners
Honesty, kindness, respect for parents and teachers, patience and responsibility: values that shape a child’s character.
Benefits for parents
An English-medium madrasa also helps parents. When lessons are taught in English, parents who are more comfortable in English can follow what their child is learning, help with revision at home, and communicate easily with teachers about progress.
For Sri Lankan families living abroad, English-medium instruction makes it possible to join a madrasa from home. With online Quran classes, children in the Gulf, Europe, Australia or elsewhere can learn with teachers who share their culture and community.
Is an English-medium madrasa right for my child?
An English-medium madrasa may be a good fit if your child is most comfortable learning in English, if you want them to understand, not just recite, what they learn, and if you value clear communication between home and madrasa.
When choosing a madrasa, look beyond the language of instruction too. Consider the teaching approach, the learning environment, how teachers communicate with parents, and the values the madrasa nurtures. Our guide to choosing the right madrasa in Negombo covers this in more detail.
English-medium madrasa in Negombo
Madrasathud Dar An Nur is an English-medium Quran madrasa in Periyamulla, Negombo, for kids and teens. Our classes run Monday to Thursday from 3:00pm to 6:00pm, and we also offer live online classes on Zoom for families anywhere in the world.
Our aim is simple: to help children build a meaningful connection with the Holy Quran while developing good character, strong faith and a love for Islamic knowledge, in a language they truly understand.
Written by the Dar An Nur Team
Madrasathud Dar An Nur is an English-medium Quran madrasa in Negombo, Sri Lanka, nurturing young Muslims in person and online.
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In-person classes in Negombo, Monday to Thursday, 3:00pm – 6:00pm, and live online classes on Zoom for families anywhere in the world.
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