BolBol

Welcome to BOLBOL
School for Persian language and culture

Bolbol School is a non-profit organisation. We are politically and religiously independent. We are not funded by any embassy or political/ religious group.

Bolbol School is a dynamic, relevant and authentic Persian school. We are an exciting interactive space where you can discover Persian culture and learn the language. We adapt authentic cultural elements, like literature, music and art, in a way that resonates with the current generation. Our mission is to connect and inspire every generation to fall in love with their Persian roots and learn to speak the language.

‘Bolbol’ is a nightingale. “ Singing like a nightingale” is a Persian expression meaning sweet-tongued or someone who knows how to speak well. At Bolbol School we embrace this expression in our language courses and empower you to “sing like a nightingale”

For centuries “the rose and the nightingale” (gol o bolbol) have been used in Persian art and literature to depict the lover and the beloved. The rose symbolizes beauty and perfection while the nightingale symbolizes the devoted yearning to become one with the beloved. (https://www.iranicaonline.org/articles/gol-o-bolbol) The theme is often used to represent both earthly and spiritual love. The rose can’t help but to be enticing and the nightingale can’t help but to impress.

About Us

We open a doorway to the Persian culture and language for anyone who is interested.

We are a warm and welcoming space where children and adults, where people with any level of Persian can feel included and have fun. We use different forms of art, such as music, painting, theater and dance, to enhance curiosity and facilitate learning.

Our community is made up of families with mixed heritage who are looking to connect with their Persian roots and learn to speak Farsi .

We strongly believe in delivering a brain-based program that follows the latest research on learning and use experienced teachers and professional artists to realize our vision. Our curriculum is inspired by Montessori and Waldorf philosophy, making it immersive and multi-sensory to meet every learner’s needs.

Our Programs

Our school is active in Zurich, and we are excited to announce that a new branch in Geneva will open in January 2026. In Zurich We have 6 different age groups described further below. Our educational philosophy for this group is a thoughtful one, supported by research, that meets every child’s needs.

We have been recognized with the Canton of Zurich as a Native Language and Culture (HSK) (https://www.hsk-kantonzuerich.ch/zh/index.cfm?Nav=30.). As such, students may receive grades from our classes to be submitted in their official school records.

Our classes are held on Saturday mornings from 10 AM to 12:30 PM and on Wednesday afternoons from 2 PM to 4 PM.

Ghoncheh

Age range 2.5 to 4 years old

Ghoncheh class uses games, stories, songs, dance, and crafts to introduce young learners to Farsi and lay a foundation for future language learning.

Multi-Sensory Learning: Our lessons integrate movement, music, and art, creating a stimulating environment that encourages conversation and interactive fun with activities like puppet shows, storytelling, and themed crafts.

Development Focus:

Cultural Awareness: Exploring Persian culture through engaging stories, songs, and art projects.
Communication Skills: Developing basic Farsi communication through playful dialogue.
Fine Motor Skills: Enhancing fine motor skills with crafts, puppet shows, and dance.

Ghoncheh class nurtures confident and curious learners eager to explore Farsi and Persian culture.

Shokoufeh

Age from 4 to 5.5 years old

Bolbol School’s Shokoufeh program lays a solid foundation in spoken and written Farsi through fun, interactive, and multi-sensory activities.

Learning Through Exploration:

Thematic Curriculum: HSK-aligned for age-appropriate learning and strong language development.
Project-Based Learning: Collaborative projects foster critical thinking and teamwork.
Cultural Arts & Crafts: Activities inspired by Persian folklore introduce children to Persian culture in a playful way.

Mastering the Basics:

Writing Skills: Children learn to write their name, numbers 0-20, and practice handwriting.
Engaging Games: Multi-sensory games encourage creative thinking, physical participation, and vocal expression.
Storytelling Magic: Captivating stories spark imagination and enrich language acquisition.

Building Confidence:

Guided Improvisation: Fun reviews of concepts build confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

Shokoufeh helps children learn Farsi and develop a love for the language and its rich cultural heritage.

Shadi

Age range 5.5 to 6.5 years old

For children aged 5.5 to 6.5, Shadi Do builds on the foundation of Shokoufeh, introducing complex language concepts through interactive, multi-sensory activities that foster confidence and accomplishment.

Unlocking the Magic of Farsi:

Engaging Alphabet Learning: Fun stories, games, and activities make learning the Persian alphabet an exciting adventure, helping children develop spoken and written Farsi skills.

Exploring Farsi Through Activities:

Thematic Curriculum: Aligned with the HSK framework, our curriculum ensures age-appropriate learning using thematic units.
Project-Based Learning: Children explore themes related to Nature, Human Society, and Everyday Life through collaborative projects, fostering critical thinking and teamwork.
Multi-Sensory Learning: Movement, music, and art create a stimulating environment for learning and conversation.

Exploring Culture and Creativity:

Cultural Arts & Crafts: Activities inspired by Persian folklore introduce children to aspects of Persian culture in a playful way.

Mastering the Basics and Beyond:

Numbers and Geometry: Continued learning of numbers in Farsi and basic geometry concepts.
Educational Games: Games targeting specific language skills encourage creative thinking, physical participation, and vocal expression.
Storytelling Magic: Captivating stories fuel imagination and provide rich language context.

Building Confidence and Independence:

Guided Improvisation: Each class concludes with guided improvisation to review learned concepts, fostering confidence and a sense of accomplishment.
Review and Reinforcement: Ensuring retention and understanding by reviewing each session’s lessons.

At Shadi, your child will advance their Farsi skills and develop a deeper appreciation for the language and its rich cultural heritage.

Neshat

Age from 6.5 to 7.5 years old

Bolbol School’s Neshat program for children aged 6.5-7.5 builds on Shokoufeh and Shadi, taking students deeper into spoken and written Farsi.

The Art of Farsi Literacy:

Reading and Writing: Children begin formal reading and writing, learning the Farsi alphabet, letter formation, and how to write words and sentences.

Enhancing Spoken Communication:

Richer Conversations: Interactive games, discussions, and storytelling activities deepen spoken Farsi communication.

Building a Love for Learning:

Multi-Sensory Approach: Movement, music, and art create a dynamic learning environment that caters to diverse learning styles.
Cultural Exploration: Elements of Iranian culture are woven into the curriculum, fostering appreciation for the language and heritage.
Self-Directed Exploration: We promote independent learning, critical thinking, and research skills.

Aligned with Success:

HSK Framework: Our curriculum follows the respected HSK framework for Farsi language learning.

Recognition and Integration:

Grades: Shough Yek grades are added to overall school reports, acknowledging achievements in Farsi.

By the end of Neshat, your child will have a solid foundation in reading, writing, and speaking Farsi, with a deep appreciation for the language and culture.

Shogh
Age from 8 to 10 years old

Bolbol School’s Shough program builds on Neshat to refine Farsi language skills and explore Persian culture, alongside intriguing comparisons with Switzerland.

Refined Farsi Skills:

Communication Mastery: Shough enhances reading, writing, and speaking abilities, empowering students to express themselves clearly and confidently across contexts.

Engaging Discussions:

Critical Thinking: Discussions on Persian history, geography, and culture foster critical thinking and global understanding, comparing these themes with Switzerland.

Essential Skills Development:

Project-Based Learning: Aligned with the HSK framework, projects focus on themes like Nature, Human Society, and global issues.
- Critical Thinking: Students analyze diverse information, forming well-supported arguments (e.g., comparing environmental challenges).
- Problem-Solving: They research and implement solutions to complex challenges (e.g., addressing water scarcity).
- Communication: Effective presentation, debate, and collaborative skills are honed (e.g., debating public transportation systems).

Exploring Persian Culture:

Historical and Social Context: Understanding Persian culture’s historical and social influences fosters deep appreciation and nuanced insights.
Cultural Diversity: Exploring Iranian and Swiss artistic traditions, festivals, and social customs promotes inclusivity and cultural understanding.

Recognition and Integration:

Shough Grades: Progress in Shough is reflected in grades added to students’ records, recognizing their Farsi language achievements.

By completing Shough, students will confidently navigate Farsi language intricacies, connect with Iranian communities, and gain invaluable perspectives on global cultures.

Omid
Age from 10 to 13 years old

Bolbol School’s Omid program builds on the foundation of Shough, where students complete the Farsi alphabet and begin reading, writing, and engaging in meaningful conversations. In Omid, learners take their Farsi to the next level—refining language skills, diving deeper into Persian culture, and developing critical thinking through comparison with Swiss and global contexts.

Refined Farsi Skills

Mastering Communication
Students expand their vocabulary, deepen grammar knowledge, and strengthen their reading and writing across diverse formats—stories, essays, reflections, and debates. They learn to express ideas clearly and confidently in both academic and everyday situations.

Engaging Discussions
Through guided conversations and collaborative learning, students explore complex topics such as:

Persian literature, poetry, and contemporary issues
Social structures and family life in Iran and Switzerland
The role of identity and migration in shaping self-expression

Persian Calligraphy & Script Styles

In Omid, students also explore the aesthetic side of the Persian language:

Learning and practicing traditional calligraphy
Exploring different Farsi script styles such as Nastaʿlīq
Creating artistic and expressive written pieces that combine creativity with cultural pride

Project-Based & Competency-Oriented Learning

Omid students engage in thematic, research-driven projects aligned with the HSK framework, designed to promote independent inquiry and collaboration. Themes include:

Environment & Society – e.g., comparing water scarcity in Iran and Switzerland
Civic Life – e.g., understanding rights and public services in both cultures
Arts & Traditions – e.g., analyzing cultural celebrations like Nowruz and Swiss National Day

Through these projects, students build essential 21st-century skills:

Critical Thinking & Analysis
Communication & Presentation
Collaboration & Leadership
Reflection & Independent Learning

Cultural Exploration & Global Comparison

Students take a deep dive into Persian history, cultural diversity, and social values—while learning to compare these with Swiss society to broaden their worldview. Topics include:

National identity and multicultural perspectives
Holidays like Nowruz, Yalda, and Swiss celebrations
Artistic expression in both Iranian and European traditions

Recognition & Growth

Student progress in Omid is formally evaluated and can be integrated into their school records, showcasing their achievement in heritage language education. Graduates of Omid leave with:

High-level Farsi literacy and fluency
Strong cultural awareness and bicultural identity
Academic and personal readiness for the future

Omid is not just a language class—it’s a space for growth, identity, and connection.
By the end of the program, students become articulate, culturally-aware learners equipped to engage with their heritage and the world.

Adults

For adults, depending on their knowledge of Farsi and their needs, we have different types of classes. In these classes they learn to read, write and talk in Persian. They also learn about the Persian culture and Iran.

Extra-curricular classes
Age from 5 to 12 years old

Extracurricular cultural and artistic activities offer children enjoyable and creative opportunities to engage in various forms of expression, including dancing, singing, sculpting, drawing, writing, and performing skits. These activities are designed to foster their artistic abilities, enhance their creativity, and cultivate a love for the arts. Moreover, participating in these activities can also serve as a great way to reinforce your child’s language skills. Through artistic expression, children can practice and improve their language abilities in a fun and engaging manner. It allows them to express themselves, communicate ideas, and explore different language structures and vocabulary. By combining language learning with creative activities, children can further develop their language proficiency while enjoying a rich and diverse artistic experience.

Summer camp
Age from 2 to 12 years old

Our summer camp offers a fun, multicultural, and enriching environment for children aged 2 to 12 years old, full of creative ideas to develop their social skills and imagination through art-based activities. From painting, music, singing, and dancing to storytelling, board games, handwork, and sculpture, your child will have the opportunity to explore various forms of self-expression and creativity. At Bolbol School, we embrace the diversity of our students and their different language backgrounds.

The Summer Camp will take place on the following dates:

July 14th, 15th, and 16th, from 9 AM to 4 PM

The fee for this unforgettable experience is 130 CHF per day. It covers all materials and activities, ensuring that your child has a rewarding and enjoyable time. As spaces are limited, we encourage you to secure a spot for your child as soon as possible.

Music and Dance Classes Age from 2 to 12 years old

Imagine your child tapping their toes, singing along, and making new friends in our vibrant music and dance classes! Designed for children ages 2 to 12 year old, our program fosters a love for music and movement while nurturing crucial skills:

Develop Language & Social Skills: Interactive activities spark communication and build confidence in expressing themselves.
Nurture Creativity & Cognitive Growth: Music engages both brain hemispheres, promoting problem-solving and imagination.
Refine Motor Skills & Auditory Recognition: Through playful activities, children improve coordination and learn to appreciate rhythm.
Learn Teamwork & Respect: Group activities teach valuable social skills like following rules and respecting others.
Build Self-Esteem & Performance Confidence: Performing in a supportive environment helps children blossom and manage emotions.

Ready to watch your child thrive? Enroll today and let them experience the joy of music and dance!