About Us
Singh Sabha Southall Education Centre provides independently-run weekly classes in Punjabi, Kirtan and Santhiya. These take place every Sunday between 10am and 3pm at Villiers High School, Boyd Avenue, UB1 3BT. (click HERE for map and contact details)
Over the years, the location of the classes has changed many times, from home classes, to the Park Avenue car-park hall, to the temporary huts at the Norwood Green site, then to Khalsa Primary School, Norwood Green, and now to Villiers High School, Southall.
As per our motto 'ਸਿਖੀ ਸਿਖਿਆ ਗੁਰ ਵੀਚਾਰਿ', we aim to combine both Sikhi and learning through engaging lessons, activities and discussions. As well as learning the Punjabi language, we hope to spread awareness and knowledge about Sikh culture, music and history, ensuring our students imbibe Sikh values and become responsible global citizens.
We expect students to be punctual, respectful and committed. They should remember to cover their head in class, complete their homework on time, practise their lessons at home and eat up their crusts at lunch!
Apart from regular Sunday classes, we organise many other events for our students such as camps and trips. Classes are complemented by themed termly assemblies, whole school programmes, competitions, an annual end-of-year programme, and prize-giving. We also have many exciting new events planned for the coming academic year!
Punjabi Classes
Punjabi Class - age 3+
10:00 - 12:00
Our youngest students start learning Punjabi at the age of three in the Naveen Paniri class. Parents are allowed to stay with their child to help them settle in for a few weeks, but we encourage them to let their child learn independently as soon as possible.
Students in Years 1-6 are allocated Punjabi classes according to school year. Students in Year 7 and above may attend either Youth Beginners or one of the exam classes (Pre-GCSE, GCSE or A-level) according to their ability.
Punjabi GCSE & A-level
10:00 - 12:00
Every year some of our students take AQA Panjabi GCSE and A-level exams as external candidates. This gives them a formal qualification which is recognised by employers and universities. So far, we are proud to say that all our previous exam candidates have passed, with most achieving A and A* grades.
Our aim is that every SSSEC pupil goes on to complete Punjabi GCSE and A-level with flying colours.
Adult & Youth Beginners Class
10:00 - 12:00
The adult Punjabi class has proved popular amongst both Punjabi and non-Punjabi students. We have had students in their teens to those in their seventies!
Some parents and grandparents who can speak Punjabi also attend to learn how to read and write the language, or simply to improve their skills.
Non-Punjabi speaking students are catered for as well.
Kirtan & Tabla Classes
Kirtan Classes
13:00- 14:15
Our kirtan students are allocated to classes based on ability. Classes range from the under 5s and beginners to more advanced classes, with string instrument students (e.g. dilruba, sarangi) also welcome. As with Punjabi classes, children above the age of three are welcome, however parents may need to stay with younger child. Kirtan students also have the opportunity to participate in keertan darbaars.
Tabla Classes
13:00 - 14:15
Pupils over five years old can attend tabla classes. These are based on ability, previous knowledge, and skill rather than age. Students are taught both theory and practical skills. Tabla students have the opportunity to accompany kirtan during our biannual programmes as well as performing percussion pieces. They also have the opportunity to participate in keertan darbaars.
All Kirtan & Tabla students must bring their own instruments so that they can practise both in class and at home. We are unable to store any instruments, so it is even more important to bring your own.
Santhiya Classes
Santhiya
13:00 - 14:15
Aside from learning Punjabi, we also stress the importance of learning about Gurmat and Gurbani. This is already incorporated within lessons, however we also offer a separate santhiya class for those who wish to learn about Gurbani in more depth, including pronunciation, memorisation, background, and meanings.
Currently, we have many young students attending this class, however if there is enough interest shown, we may be able to open this to adults and parents too.
Our Team
We have a dedicated team of teachers, volunteers, parents and other sevadars who ensure that the centre runs as smoothly as possible.
The majority of our teachers have degrees in Punjabi and are all DBS-checked. The SSSEC team is lucky to have many talented individuals with years of experience in teaching Punjabi, Gurmat and Kirtan both in schools and Gurdwara-related settings.
Apart from the teachers, we have hardworking organisers, administrators and other sevadars who contribute to the running of the centre. The parents of SSSEC students are also very committed and provide valuable support in preparing lunch for the students every week.
If you’re interested in working with us, learn more here.