Our ethos
Shams Centre is a UK-based educational hub with a strong foundation in over 30 years of Arabic language instruction. Established in Glasgow in 2017 by Dr. Hussien Altwassi, our roots trace back to a rich teaching legacy from Jordan. Our mission is to offer inclusive, high-quality Arabic and cultural education to learners from all walks of life. We blend academic excellence with cultural authenticity and a commitment to social impact, fostering an environment where language, identity, and community flourish.
As technology continues to transform education, Shams Centre stands at the forefront of innovation. We are proud to be the first Arabic school franchise in the UK, working closely with the UK Ministry of Education and local state schools to enhance access and deepen our reach across 10 branches nationwide. Through advanced learning platforms and immersive educational tools, we seamlessly merge classical teachings with modern methodologies. Our programs also feature games, sports, and recreational activities to support student wellbeing and encourage active participation. This forward-thinking, joyful approach ensures that education at Shams Centre is not only enriching and holistic but also a true harmony of tradition and innovation — In Shaa Allah.
Dr. Hussien Altwass
FOUNDER OF Shams Arabic Schools
Inspiring Through the Arabic Language
At Shams Arabic Schools, the Arabic language is not merely a subject—it is a path to spiritual, cultural, and personal growth. Rooted in decades of experience and heritage, we see Arabic as a sacred trust passed down through generations—connecting us to the Qur’an, to classical Islamic texts, and to our collective identity.
Our mission is to inspire students to love and live the Arabic language. We do not teach it in isolation; we present it as a living, breathing force—capable of unlocking meaning, deepening understanding, and building stronger spiritual awareness. Arabic is the language of the Qur’an and the language of unity, and we believe every student—regardless of their background—deserves the opportunity to access its beauty with clarity, fluency, and confidence.
Building a Community Through the Arabic Language
The Arabic language is a foundation for community, not just communication. At Shams, we harness the unifying power of Arabic to build inclusive, vibrant communities rooted in respect, shared identity, and collective values. Our educational environment nurtures connection between families, students, and educators, where mutual understanding grows from a shared language and culture.
We work intentionally to support children of refugees, migrants, and multicultural backgrounds who often straddle different worlds. Through Arabic, we give them a means of belonging—culturally, spiritually, and socially. Our community model is guided by Qur’anic values of compassion, justice, and collective good—values which resonate not only with Islamic ethics but also with British values of inclusivity and respect.
Creating the leaders of tomorrow through the Arabic Language and Culture
We are not only teaching a language—we are shaping a generation. At Shams Arabic Schools, we believe education must go hand in hand with character development, moral grounding, and holistic wellbeing. Our learners are taught to embody values such as integrity, empathy, responsibility, and leadership—deeply rooted in both Qur’anic teachings and modern educational practice.
Children need role models they can relate to. That is why we are proud to be inspired and supported by leading figures in Islamic scholarship, including respected Imams from Makkah and Madinah, who exemplify the very principles we aim to cultivate. Our goal is to raise a generation that speaks Arabic fluently, lives ethically, and contributes positively—within their families, communities, and the broader society.
An Innovative Education Platform
In a world transformed by technology, meaningful education must evolve. At Shams Arabic Schools, we are committed to integrating technology into the heart of our learning experience—not as an add-on, but as a core part of how we reach and inspire students.
Our advanced digital platform enables students to access high-quality Arabic and Islamic education wherever they are. From interactive virtual classrooms and Qur’an learning apps to digital assessments and online collaboration tools, we are creating a dynamic environment that matches the needs and interests of modern learners. This isn’t just about screens—it’s about engagement, relevance, and accessibility.
Today’s learners expect interactive, high-impact learning. Passive education no longer works. At Shams, we use technology to energise the teaching of Arabic and Islamic studies—ensuring the Qur’an’s beauty is not only preserved but felt, experienced, and loved by the next generation.
Pioneering education system
Shams Arabic Schools delivers a truly unique educational experience, setting itself apart from traditional Madrasahs and Qur’an schools across the UK. Our commitment lies in providing high-quality instruction in Qur’anic and Islamic studies while seamlessly integrating the latest in educational technology. By combining time-honored teachings with exclusive innovations, interactive study tools, and state-of-the-art digital platforms, we create an enriching and immersive learning environment.
Each of our schools is designed to specialize in five core areas, ensuring a well-rounded and impactful educational journey:
Tajweed – Mastering the art and science of Qur’anic intonation
-
Hifdh – Developing strong memorisation and long-term retention skills
-
Qira’ah – Perfecting the beauty and accuracy of Qur’anic recitation
-
Arabic Language – Gaining a deep and practical understanding of classical Arabic
-
Islamic Studies – Building Islamic character, values, and personality through focused learning
Why Choose us?
Below are some of the unique features which ensure that Shams Arabic Schools stand out from the crowd of Madrasahs and Qur’an schools in the UK
Language-First Qur'anic Understanding
We don’t just teach students to memorise – we teach them to understand. Arabic is the gateway to the Qur’an, and our integrated curriculum ensures that students are not only reading fluently, but truly grasping the meaning of what they recite. This dual focus on language fluency and spiritual depth makes our approach both intellectually and spiritually fulfilling.
Technology-Integrated Learning
We are one of the few Arabic and Islamic education centres in the UK to invest in a full digital learning ecosystem: Interactive virtual classes for remote learners Smart whiteboards and gamified lessons in classrooms Student portals for tracking progress and assignments Parental dashboards for real-time updates AI-powered reading support (coming soon)
UK-Aligned Curriculum with Arabic Roots
Our curriculum is custom-built to meet the needs of British Muslim students—bridging Arabic, Qur’anic studies, and Islamic values within a context they can relate to. It is culturally relevant, age-appropriate, and structured across clearly defined learning levels, supporting learners from foundational stages to GCSE Arabic.
Focus on Tarbiyyah & Character Development
We teach more than language—we build character. Inspired by the Qur’an and Sunnah, our Tarbiyyah programme includes: Weekly values-based discussions Leadership & teamwork activities Emotional intelligence workshops Islamic etiquette and manners in action This ensures students not only know what is right, but also live by it.
Bilingual and Multicultural Learning Environment
Shams welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and encourages multilingualism as an asset. We support learners in both Modern Standard Arabic and colloquial dialects, fostering an environment where Arabic is celebrated as both a classical and living language.
A Space of Belonging for Refugee & Migrant Families
We are proud to serve children affected by displacement, migration, or social isolation. Through language, culture, and community-building, Shams offers them a place of safety, identity, and belonging—supported by pastoral care, bilingual staff, and wellbeing services.
High-Calibre Educators and Role Models
Our teachers are carefully selected for their: Academic qualifications in Arabic and Islamic Studies Training in UK safeguarding and educational standards Ability to connect with students in meaningful ways We also invite guest scholars, Qur’an reciters, and youth mentors to inspire students and broaden their exposure to excellence in learning.
Vibrant Community Activities
Education doesn't stop in the classroom. We host regular: Family Qur’an nights Arabic-themed cultural festivals Parent workshops & Islamic parenting sessions Holiday programmes and language camps These events help reinforce learning while strengthening family bonds and community unity.
Recognised & Accredited
Working toward full Ofsted registration
Recognised by local education authorities across the UK.
Accredited by the Arabic Teachers Councils in the UK and Worldwide.
Collaborating with the UK Universites, Schools and British Councils.
Our Ethos: Learn to Succeed. Play to Enjoy.
Our learning model is built on joy, connection, and purpose. We want our students to love learning Arabic, to feel spiritually uplifted, and to see education as a lifelong journey that shapes who they are and how they live.
Qur’an-Inspired Life Skills
Understanding the Qur’an is a lifelong journey—and so is learning how to live by it. At Shams, we translate Qur’anic values into real-life skills through: Conflict resolution exercises Ethical decision-making scenarios Discussions on modern challenges through an Islamic lens Peer mentorship and community service initiatives This approach helps students apply Qur’anic principles in school, at home, and in society—making faith practical, relevant, and lived. "From classroom to character—learning with purpose."
EASY MONTHLY PAYMENT PLAN
Monthly fees payment option to make studying with us affordable and feasible for all.
Register your child's seat now Start Sept 2025
Avoid disappointment by contacting us and registering today!
Join our newsletter
Enter your email and we’ll keep you posted with news and updates.
Receive SMS updates
Enter your mobile number and we’ll keep you posted with news and updates.