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 tthat 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 currently available in Zurich. We have 4 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.

Shokufeh

Age range 2.5 to 4 years old

Students make meaningful connections with Persian through stories, art and singing. Our multi-sensory lesson plans incorporate movement, music and art to help integrate learning and encourage conversations. Music plays an important role in learning the rhythm and sounds of the language, while movement connects the mind and body for a more integrated learning. Puppet shows, art and dancing are some of the most popular activities in this group.

Shadi

Age from 4.5 to 7 years old

For children from 4.5 to 7 years old, we start introducing the Persian alphabet through fun stories and different games. We explore different layers of the language by using a thematic curriculum. The arts and crafts portion of the class uses familiar notions, such as colors, animals, family, and body parts, inspired by Persian folklore and expressions, to introduce different aspects of the Persian culture.

Through games we entice our learners to use and retain the language effortlessly while stories fuel their imagination. The games address developmental stages of children by encouraging their creative, physical and vocal participation.

At the end of each class, we review the previous session’s lessons through guided improvisation.

Shogh
Age from 7 to 12 years old

At this section we start enhancing the whole-language-reading method. We help them become more familiar with the vocabulary and expressions used in the texts and stories. The formal writing course starts after they improve their reading skills. This class has multiple sections based on the children’s fluency.

In addition to formal reading and writing lessons, each class also includes music, games, arts and cultural education, where the students learn about Persian literature and folklore as well as different Persian celebrations and customs. Our students discover the beautiful and diverse regions of Iran through virtual trips that show the landmarks and historical sites. Each student learns more about his heritage through celebrations, traditions, art and cuisine

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.

After-School Club in French Age from 5 to 12 years old

A fun, multicultural and rich environment for children from 5 to 12 years old, full of creative ideas to develop children’s social skils and imagination through art-based activities such as: painting, singing, dancing, storytelling, board games, handwork and sculpture. Activities are guided and offered in French language for children speaking different languages as their mother tongue. With a talented and open-minded team. Bolbol School After-school club is focused on creating joyful moments for children to flourish and grow.

No minimum French language skills are required.