Classes
Everything you need to know about our weekly classes.
Younger Class
In the younger class, students focus on building a strong foundation in both Gurmukhi and Sikhi. Children are taught all of the akhar (letters) while also being introduced to key aspects of Sikh rehat and history. Learning is made as engaging, enjoyable and interactive as possible, creating a positive environment that supports their early development and interest in Sikhi.
Middle Class
In the middle class, students begin to build on their existing knowledge by starting the Baal Updesh Kaida, where they learn to join akhar (letters) together to form and read words. Alongside this, they continue to deepen their understanding of Sikhi.
Elder Class
In the elder class, students progress to a more advanced level of learning, including Nitnem, advanced Gurbani Santhiya, Sikh philosophy, and leadership through Seva. This stage focuses on deepening their understanding, strengthening their discipline, and nurturing a sense of responsibility and leadership within a Sikhi framework.
Classes are only for registered students aged 7–18. Saturday classes start promptly at 9:15am. Tuesday classes start promptly at 6:00pm.
👕 Uniform
All students must attend wearing appropriate Gurdwara attire. Heads must be covered at all times.
Boys
- Baana
- Kurta Pyjama
- Dastaar
- Patka
- Rumaal
Girls
- Baana
- Suit
- Dastaar
- Patka
- Chunni
Heads must be covered at all times with a Dastaar, Patka, Rumaal or Chunni. This is a requirement of the Gurdwara environment and must be observed by all students throughout the session.
📍 Arrival & Collection
- Parents must drop off children inside the Gurdwara classroom
- Children must be collected promptly at finishing time
- Parents must wait outside the classroom during lessons
- Please inform a teacher if you will be late dropping off or collecting your child
📅 Attendance & Punctuality
- Attendance is monitored closely due to limited spaces and a waiting list
- Absences must be reported at least 12 hours in advance via the DGA app
- More than three unauthorised absences may result in loss of place at the academy
- Saturday classes start promptly at 9:15am and Tuesday classes at 6:00pm
- Late arrivals disrupt lessons — repeated lateness will be recorded and parents contacted
- Persistent lateness may result in loss of place at the academy
- Parents are requested to avoid booking holidays during term time
- Extended absences may result in loss of place due to the waiting list
Report all absences via the DGA app at least 12 hours before the class.
🤝 Behaviour
Students must always show respectful behaviour within the Gurdwara and classroom in line with Gurmat values.
- Listen to teachers and Sevadaars at all times
- Respect Gurbani, Gutka Sahibs and the Gurdwara environment
- Be kind and considerate to other students
- Mobile phones must not be used during class without permission
Persistent poor behaviour will result in parents being informed and further action taken.
🎒 What to Bring
- All classes: Bag, notebook and pen
- Middle class: Baal Updesh Kaida and a Hazooria
- Elder class: Gutka Sahib and a Hazooria
Students may use the Baal Updesh Kaiday and Gutka Sahibs kept in the classroom; however it is recommended they bring their own. Please ensure full Satkaar and Sucham is maintained — clean hands, kept respectfully and never placed on the floor.
📝 Homework
Students must practise what they have learned in class at home throughout the week. For further guidance, please speak to your teacher.
💷 Monthly Payments
- The monthly Gurmat Academy fee is £20 for one child
- Additional contributions are appreciated for families with more than one child attending
- Payments help support resources, equipment and the running of the Gurdwara
Cash — hand to Bapinder Singh
Direct Debit — set up via justgiving.com/devanhaar
If paying by Direct Debit, please send a screenshot to Bapinder Singh via the DGA app.
Payment reminders will be sent monthly via the app.
Join the Waiting List
Classes are open to students aged 7–18. Complete the form below and we'll be in touch as soon as a place becomes available.