Faith and Character
Recitation, understanding, reflection and memorisation of the Qur'an, and a positive Islamic identity and sense of belonging.
Arabic school since 2001Nursery to A-LevelSouth Manchester
A light to guide every child.
Al-Manar means the lighthouse. For 25 years we have helped children build their Arabic listening, speaking, reading and writing, alongside Islamic and cultural values.
Letter from the Headteacher · 2026
A new chapter in a 25-year journey of excellence.
Al-Manar Arabic School opened in September 2001 to meet a need within the Arab community, and to welcome every child interested in learning Arabic. In her letter to parents, our Headteacher marks the new academic year as a new chapter in that 25-year story.
Why families choose Al Manar
The name reflects our hope to guide children in an enlightened and beneficial way.
Academic Excellence
A structured path from Early Years to GCSE and A-Level Arabic. We are an Edexcel exam centre, and several 2026 GCSE students achieved Grade 9.
Nurturing Care
Experienced staff who adapt the syllabus to children's different learning styles. No teacher works alone with pupils without an enhanced DBS check.
Community
Close links with the local community, councillors, MPs and the Lord Mayor, plus our Uganda school project and orphan sponsorship.
Recognised for quality
"The teachers are trained to teach the curriculum in an open minded way, and do adapt the syllabus to meet the children's different leaning styles."
2001
the year Al-Manar opened, in September
1st
supplementary school in the North West to win the QF Gold Award (2016)
Nursery
to A-Level
to A-Level
one continuous journey
Edexcel
exam centre
- QF Gold Award 2016
- Manchester City Council Gold Award 2015
- Special Award 2016 (Teacher)
- Quality Standard Award 2005
- Bronze Award
- Registered charity 1167415
The learning journey
From Early Years to A-Level, step by step.
Nursery and Reception
Early Years
Nursery is taught by qualified nursery nurses trained in early years provision. Reception children attend the Tuesday and Thursday online sessions.
- Qualified nursery nurses
- Trained in early years provision
- Reception: Tuesday and Thursday online
Years 1 to 7
Primary
We follow the Jordanian syllabus, adapted by our teachers. Arabic language is combined with Islamic studies, and concepts from maths, science, history and geography are taught through selected Arabic texts.
- Jordanian syllabus, adapted by our teachers
- Arabic language combined with Islamic studies
- Years 1 to 4 also attend Tuesday and Thursday online
Secondary
Pre-GCSE and GCSE
Secondary students study the Arabic syllabus on Sundays. The school is an Edexcel exam centre, and in 2026 several GCSE students achieved Grade 9.
- Sunday, 10am to 3:30pm
- Edexcel exam centre
- Grade 9 results in 2026
Sixth form
AS-Level and A-Level
AS and A-Level students continue the Arabic syllabus on Sundays, with exams at our Edexcel centre.
- Sunday, 10am to 3:30pm
- Edexcel exam centre
Two strands, one child.
Supplementary education within the wider British community, built on Jordanian course books and texts written by our own teaching staff.
اللغة العربية
Arabic Language
Modern, evidence-informed methods suited to each age group, with an Arabic language supervisor supporting our teachers.
- Arabic as a mother tongue, and confident bilingualism
- Reading and writing, not only spoken Arabic
- Talking with parents, grandparents and extended family
القرآن والتربية الإسلامية
Qur'an and Islamic Studies
Engagement with the Qur'an, and knowledge of Islamic heritage and history, including the lives and conduct of the righteous predecessors.
- Recitation, understanding, reflection and memorisation
- A positive Islamic identity and self-confidence
- Cultural awareness and active citizenship in Manchester
Life at Al Manar
Learning, celebrating, belonging.
A friendly environment where children learn and socialise with other young learners. Scroll sideways to see more.
In our parents' words
1 / 5
News and events
All news →
Why Choose A-Manar Arabic School?
🌟 Professional Arabic Language EducationA structured approach designed to help children develop their Arabic language skills progressively. 📚 Reading & Writing DevelopmentSupporting children to…
Back To School 6th Sept 2026
School Calendar 2026–27
Term dates, holidays and events for the year, in one printable calendar.
Download PDFJoining Al Manar
Four simple steps to begin.
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Enquire
Call 07985 536188, WhatsApp or email info@almanarschool.co.uk.
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Visit
See us at Parrs Wood High School, East Didsbury.
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Register
Complete the online form with two contacts and any medical information.
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Welcome
The name you register is the one used on your child's certificates and awards.