Course Introduction
The Candlelight Arabic Programme helps participants learn and understand Arabic in the context of the Qur’an and Islamic studies. It is designed to build foundational language skills, improve comprehension, and support learners in engaging more deeply with Islamic texts, while also encouraging confidence and a love of learning.
The programme is structured, accessible, and progressive, making it suitable for learners of different ages and abilities. Lessons are taught by qualified and patient instructors who use clear explanations and practical exercises to support steady progress. Sessions are interactive and encourage participation, helping students build confidence step by step.
Creating Foundations in Arabic
The course is designed to help students develop a deep appreciation of the Arabic language, including its subtle literary features, while building strong competence in speaking, writing, reading, and understanding. The course also introduces Modern Standard Arabic, ensuring learners are equipped with the language as it is used in contemporary contexts.
The objectives of the programme are to:
- Enable students to read a wide range of Arabic texts independently
- Develop strong listening and speaking skills in Arabic
- Build a solid foundation for progression onto Year 2 of the course
Overall, the programme aims to provide a structured and supportive pathway for learners to gain confidence and fluency in Arabic through consistent study and guided progression.
Curriculum
The course introduces the basics of Nahw (grammar) and Sarf (morphology), helping students understand Arabic structure and apply it in reading, speaking, and writing. The main texts used are Learning Arabic for Non-Arab Speakers (i.e Durus Al-lugah) and Qisasun Nabiyyin, along with other supporting materials.
Assessment
Students enrolled on the Candlelight Course are formally assessed each term and are required to complete weekly assignments. Assessments for the Contemplation and Comprehension modules are conducted through written examinations, while the Conversation module is assessed through an oral examination. Students may speak to class teachers for information on specific details regarding the exam format for each subject.
As the course is condensed, students are recommended to revise their class notes on a weekly basis. Students may additionally be given tasks or projects by respective teachers to be carried out throughout the year. Outside of class, students are recommended to spend a minimum of 4-5 hours of study time per week. Students are given a recommended reading list that has been tailored to their programme of study.
Course Instructors
Shaykh Ibraheem Ahmad
He is an active member of several global Islamic finance bodies, reflecting his deep engagement with the industry’s development and regulatory standards. His expertise is recognized internationally, as evidenced by his role as an in-house scholar and Imam at the European Islamic Centre, (UK) and the Muslim Forum of Britain, where he contributes to academic and practical discourse.
Before founding Sharia Labs, a consultancy dedicated to advancing Sharia-compliant financial solutions, Shaykh Ibraheem played a key role in developing a range of Islamic banking products in the UK and GCC regions. His work spans advisory roles and the hands-on creation of ethical financial solutions, making him a key figure in the field. Through Sharia Labs, he provides expert guidance on Islamic finance, Sharia compliance, and ethical investment strategies, helping individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of the industry.
Shaykh Mahmoud Aliko
He possesses over 15 years of experience teaching Science and Biology in Syria, Saudi Arabia, and England. He is currently teaching at Eden Boys’ Academy, UK. Shaykh also has completed PGCE and achieved QTS from Birmingham University recently.
Shaykh Mahmoud has served as the Imam and Khatib of the Friday Khutbah at Omar ibn Al-Khattab Mosque for the past four years. He is dedicated to inspiring students in both their academic learning and personal character development.
Passionate about education, Shaykh Mahmoud incorporates modern teaching methods into the study of Islamic sciences, making learning both engaging and effective. He also has a keen interest in exploring the relationship between science and faith, helping students appreciate the harmony between intellectual inquiry and spiritual understanding.
Key Information
How to Enrol
To enrol onto this course please complete the form in the link below. Once we have received and processed your application we will contact you with payment information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It is a structured programme designed to help learners understand Arabic, particularly in relation to the Qur’an, while building confidence and a love for the language.
It is open to learners from 18+ and diffrent abilities, including beginners and those at a developing level.
No prior experience is required. The course is designed to support beginners while also helping developing learners progress further.
Students learn Arabic reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension, with a focus on Qur’anic Arabic, vocabulary, and sentence structure. The course also introduces grammar (nahw) and morphology (sarf).
The programme includes four key modules: Grammar, Communication, Comprehension, and Contemplation, combining language learning with practical and Qur’anic application.
This module focuses on reflecting on Qur’anic verses and words of wisdom through linguistic analysis, helping students connect language learning with deeper understanding.
Classes are delivered by qualified instructors using clear explanations and interactive activities, helping students build confidence step by step in a supportive environment.
Yes, the Communication module includes practical conversation practice in Modern Standard Arabic to help develop speaking confidence.
Students will be able to read Arabic texts more independently, improve their speaking and listening skills, and build a strong foundation for progression to Year 2.
Students are assessed through weekly assignments and termly exams. Written assessments cover comprehension and contemplation, while speaking skills are assessed orally.
Students are encouraged to revise weekly and complete 4–5 hours of independent study, supported by recommended reading materials.
Yes, core resources include Durus al-Lugah and Qisas an-Nabiyyin, along with additional supporting materials provided throughout the course.
Yes, lessons are designed to be interactive, encouraging participation through discussion, exercises, and group learning activities.
The course is taught by experienced and qualified instructors with backgrounds in Islamic studies, education, and Arabic language teaching.
It supports a deeper understanding of the Qur’an and Sunnah, strengthens connection to Islamic heritage, and helps learners engage directly with classical texts.
Classes run on Wednesdays (7:30pm–9:30pm) and Saturdays (10:00am–12:00pm). The annual fee is £480, payable as a one-off or in three instalments over nine months.