Russian Orthodox Church School Chiswick

Parish School and Religious Instruction

The parish has a school which is runs on a Saturday in the Church Hall where children between the ages of 6 and 16 are taught in Russian; God’s Law, Russian language, singing, history and geography of Russia. Recently subjects have been added including Logic and music, where children learn Russian folklore and become acquainted with Russian folk instruments.

The education of children is vital for their development: In the school the law of God teaches the basics of the faith, the Church-Slavic language which is essential for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of worship, church literature and iconography. Church Music also helps the students to better understand the Church services. Whilst the history of Russia which can be a controversial subject, because the content of textbooks and books varies depending on where and when they were written. But in the school, history is taught from a religious point of view which negates any distortion that may still persist.

Russian language is obviously one of the important subjects, as it helps children to maintain and develop skills in their native language, which is very difficult for those pupils attending English schools. The lessons are important for the students to give them confidence in speaking the language of their parents and in preparing to take Russian language in the GCSE and A-Level.

The school runs over three terms during the academic year, starting in each September and running through to July. For further information and details of fees please contact Svetlana Zaychenko, email: ur.xednay@1tvshcz

Sunday School

A Sunday school (kindergarten) organised by the Sisterhood for the very young operates each Sunday for the first part of the Sunday Liturgy; the children are brought into Church in time for the distribution of the precious gifts.

Adult Religious Instruction

Regular classes are usually held after the Sunday Trapeza (Meal) in Bible study and religious knowledge in the Orthodox Church tradition. The classes are informal and organised by Fr Vladimir. Currently they are only held in Russian, but it is hoped to start shortly similar group in English.