Whether you're a masjid committee adding a children's programme or a small group of parents starting something new, this guide walks through the practical setup of a UK maktab.
1. Decide the model
Will you run weekday after-school sessions, weekend-only, or a full Darul Uloom-style programme? The model determines premises hours, staffing, and fees. Most UK maktabs run 4:30–6:30pm weekdays.
2. Premises
- Most maktabs run inside a masjid hall or community centre.
- Check fire safety, capacity, and any local authority change-of-use rules.
- If you accept fees, the building doesn't usually need separate registration — but check with your local council.
3. Safeguarding & DBS
Every adult working with children needs an Enhanced DBS check. Appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead. The Muslim Council of Britain and NSPCC both publish free safeguarding policy templates you can adapt.
4. Registration
UK supplementary schools (which most maktabs are) don't currently need to register with Ofsted unless you teach more than 18 hours a week. Most maktabs run well under that threshold.
5. Fees & finance
Decide between donation-based or fixed monthly fees. Fixed fees are easier to budget against. Use a system like Stripe to take card or direct debit so you're not chasing cash.
6. Parent communication
A parent portal beats a WhatsApp group for anything official — attendance, progress, fees and announcements. Parents can see how their child is doing without needing to ask the teacher.
7. Software
Once you're past about 20 students, paper registers and spreadsheets break. Pick a free option to start — Labbaik's Safar plan is built exactly for this — and only upgrade when you outgrow it.