Roohafza - Afghan Weekend School

School supports Afghan children and young people aged 8–16, many of whom have recently arrived in the UK or are navigating life between cultures and their families, recognizing the important role parents and careers play in children’s wellbeing and cultural connection.

3

School locations

50

Students

6

Teachers employed

What we offer

The school offers a safe, welcoming, and culturally familiar learning environment, helping children stay connected to their Afghan heritage while thriving in the UK education system.

Dari and Pashto language classes
Cultural education – Afghan music, poetry, and art
Creative and wellbeing sessions for children
Community and family workshops to support parents’ involvement
Qualified and bilingual teachers from Afghan backgrounds

Register

School Schedule & Sites

Roohafza School runs every Saturday during term time, from 10:00am to 12:00pm across our sites.

📍 School sites:

Woolwich – Clockhouse Community Centre
Eltham – St Thomas More School
Lewisham – The Albany

…and we’re working on opening new sites soon!

Classes in Dari and Pashto, taught by trained native-language teachers.

The school offers a safe, welcoming, and culturally familiar learning environment, helping children stay connected to their Afghan heritage while thriving in the UK education system.

Language & Literacy

Dari and Pashto classes led by qualified bilingual teachers help children strengthen their language skills while staying connected to their cultural roots.
Through reading, writing, and storytelling, students build confidence in both their heritage languages and communication skills — supporting their emotional expression, identity, and sense of belonging.
Music, Poetry & Arts

Creative sessions introduce children to Afghan music, poetry, and traditional arts, allowing them to explore culture in joyful and meaningful ways.
Whether through singing, rhythm, painting, or learning classic poems, students gain a deeper understanding of Afghan heritage while developing imagination, creativity, and confidence — strengthening friendships and cultural pride.
Support with UK Education & Community Life

Roohafza School helps Afghan children and families better understand and navigate the UK education system, making school life easier and less overwhelming.
This helps families feel more informed and empowered, easing the transition into a new country and creating a strong foundation for academic success and emotional wellbeing.

Our mission is to support the wellbeing, confidence, and cultural connection of Afghan children and young people aged 8–16, helping them thrive both in the UK and within their Afghan identity.

We offer Dari and Pashto language classes, alongside cultural education in Afghan music, poetry, and art. Through creative and wellbeing-focused sessions, students develop language skills, self-expression, and emotional resilience. These experiences help them stay connected to their heritage while building the confidence they need to succeed in the UK education system.

Our classes are taught by qualified, bilingual teachers from Afghan backgrounds, ensuring cultural understanding and a sense of belonging. Students learn in an environment where their lived experiences are recognised, their traditions are valued, and their voices are heard.

Roohafza School also supports families through community, recognising the essential role caregivers play in children’s wellbeing and cultural identity. These sessions help parents stay involved, find guidance, and build supportive relationships within their new community.

Together, children, young people, and families can celebrate their heritage, strengthen connections, and create shared memories — building a strong foundation for both cultural pride and future success

Frequently Asked Questions

Please contact us if you cannot find an answer to your question.

- Dari and Pashto language classes
- Cultural education – Afghan music, poetry, and art
- Creative and wellbeing sessions for children
- Community and family workshops to support parents’ involvement
- Qualified and bilingual teachers from Afghan backgrounds
All activities are completely free. Registration is required to participate in Roohafza Afghan Weekend School.
Roohafza School runs every Saturday during term time,from 10:00am to 12:00pm across our sites.
📍 School sites:
- Woolwich – Clockhouse Community Centre
- Eltham – St Thomas More School
- Lewisham – The Albany
…and we’re working on opening new sites soon!

Feedback from our participants

“I’m really happy to attend the Afghan youth school. The teachers are kind, the classes are engaging, and I feel like I’m learning something new every week. It’s also a place where I finally feel understood and supported.”
“Coming here has helped me build confidence and make new friends. The activities are fun, and I enjoy being part of a community that shares my culture while helping me grow. I always look forward to the next session!”
“This school has made a big difference for me. I feel more connected, more motivated, and more hopeful about my future. The mentors really care about us, and it’s a safe space where I can learn, ask questions, and be myself.”