For generations, Muslim children in the UK have gone to the local masjid madrasah after school. Today, many families are choosing an online madrasah instead. It saves the evening commute, brings qualified teachers into the home and makes it easier to track what children are actually learning.
But not every online madrasah is the same. This guide explains what a good online madrasah for kids in the UK should teach, how classes work, and how to choose the right one for your child.
What is an online madrasah?
An online madrasah is a structured Islamic school that runs live classes over the internet, usually in the evenings after mainstream school. Children learn Qur’an recitation, Tajweed, memorisation and Islamic studies with a teacher and a small group of classmates, following a set curriculum with levels and assessments.
It is different from a one-to-one Quran tutor because it offers a full curriculum, a class community and a school structure. It is also different from a full-time Islamic school, because children attend their usual school during the day.
What should a good online madrasah teach?
A complete madrasah curriculum usually includes:
- Qur’an recitation: from Arabic letters to fluent reading of the Mushaf.
- Tajweed: the rules of correct pronunciation, applied in recitation.
- Du’a and surah memorisation: the daily duas and surahs every Muslim child should know.
- Islamic Studies: Aqeedah (belief), Fiqh (worship and daily rulings), Seerah (the life of the Prophet, peace be upon him) and Islamic history.
- Tarbiyyah: manners, character and morals, taught through stories and discussion.
The Al-Rushd Online Madrasah covers each of these areas in a level-based structure, starting with a foundational stage covering the basics of belief, Qur’anic recitation, prayer essentials and moral training, then moving into deeper study of Seerah, Islamic rulings, history and recitation with Tajweed.
How online madrasah classes work
Most online madrasahs run on weekday evenings, after school. At the time of writing, Al-Rushd’s online madrasah runs Monday to Thursday, from 5:00pm to 6:30pm UK time, giving 6 hours of learning each week. Holidays follow the UK school calendar, so family plans stay simple.
A typical evening might include:
- A short welcome and dua.
- Qur’an recitation in small groups, with the teacher listening to each child.
- An Islamic Studies lesson, often with stories, questions and activities.
- Memorisation practice and revision.
- A short reflection or character lesson to close.
Benefits of an online madrasah
- No commute. No more rushing through traffic after school, especially in winter.
- Qualified teachers. Families can access teachers who might not be available locally.
- Clear progress. Regular assessments show exactly what your child has learned.
- Consistency. Children can continue lessons while travelling or during bad weather.
- Parent visibility. You can see and hear what your child is learning at home.
How to choose the right online madrasah
Ask these questions before enrolling:
- What is the curriculum? Ask for the levels and topics covered.
- Who are the teachers? Look for qualified, experienced teachers who are good with children.
- How big are the classes? Qur’an needs individual attention.
- What ages are accepted? Al-Rushd’s madrasah welcomes students from age 5 up to 16.
- How is progress assessed? Al-Rushd assesses students regularly to ensure steady progress.
- What are the timings? Make sure they fit around school and homework.
- What are the fees? At the time of writing, Al-Rushd’s online madrasah has an admission fee of £60 and a monthly fee of £55, paid over 12 months. Always check the latest fees on the madrasah page.
- Is the platform safe? Ask how classes are secured and who can join.
Tips to help children thrive in an online madrasah
- Create a routine. Same place, same time, every day.
- Prepare before class. A short snack and toilet break before 5pm helps concentration.
- Use headphones to reduce distractions.
- Revise little and often. 5 to 10 minutes of revision each day is better than a long session once a week.
- Show interest. Ask your child what they learned and let them teach you a dua or rule.
- Celebrate progress. Mark milestones such as finishing the Qaida or memorising a new surah.
When to consider Hifz or full-time Islamic school
If your child is reading fluently and wants to memorise the Qur’an, a dedicated Hifz programme may be the next step. See our Hifz programme. If you want Islamic and academic education together during the school day, a full-time online Islamic school such as Al-Rushd Online School may be a better fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can children join an online madrasah?
Many start around age 5. Al-Rushd’s online madrasah accepts students aged 5 to 16.
How many hours a week is online madrasah?
It varies by provider. Al-Rushd’s online madrasah runs 4 evenings a week for 1.5 hours, giving 6 hours per week.
Is an online madrasah as good as the masjid madrasah?
With live classes, qualified teachers and small groups, an online madrasah can be just as effective, with the added benefits of no travel and clear progress tracking.
Do children follow a set curriculum?
Yes. A good online madrasah follows a level-based curriculum with regular assessment.
How do I enrol my child?
Visit the Al-Rushd Online Madrasah page or apply now.
