Masjids, schools and Islamic organisations in the UK often run Quran competitions. They can be a wonderful goal, if preparation is calm and focused.
First: read the rules
- Which surahs or juz, and for which age group?
- Is it memorisation, recitation, or both?
- How are marks given? Usually most go to accuracy and Tajweed.
A 10-week plan
| Weeks | Focus |
|---|---|
| 1–2 | Teacher checks the whole portion; list every mistake |
| 3–5 | Accuracy: fix mistakes; recite the full portion daily |
| 6–8 | Tajweed and fluency: madd, ghunnah, stopping; recite with a recording |
| 9 | Mock tests: you start from random verses, as judges often do |
| 10 | Light revision, early nights, no new work |
Practise like the real day
- Judges often ask the child to continue from a random verse. Practise this every day in weeks 8–10.
- Recite in front of relatives or a small group to get used to an audience.
- Wear the clothes they will wear on the day once, so nothing feels new.
Keep the right intention
Remind your child that the aim is to please Allah, not to beat others. Whatever the result, the hours of recitation are already rewarded.
Teacher’s tip: on the day, tell your child to take one breath before starting and read slowly. Nerves make children rush, and rushing causes most lost marks.
Related: Reciting beautifully.
