A Sanctuary of Hope: How The Zahra Trust Nursery is Transforming Childhood in Iraq 

In a world where the plight of orphans is often ignored or cast aside, The Zahra Trust Nursery stands as a beacon of hope – rooted in mercy, built on compassion, and guided by the teachings of the Ahlulbayt (as). 

Established to serve Iraq’s most vulnerable children, this nursery isn’t just about early childhood education. It’s about restoring the right of every child to play, learn, and be loved.  

It’s about honouring the dignity of a child’s life by giving them a chance to begin again. 

A Faith-Driven Response to Forgotten Childhoods 

Unlike mainstream nurseries in Iraq, where early years are often reduced to rote memorisation and desk time, The Zahra Trust Nursery takes a different approach – one that honours both international best practices and Islamic principles.  

Children learn through play, discovery, and movement in a purposefully designed open-plan space that encourages creativity, independence, and joy. 

This is education rooted in the belief that every child is a trust from Allah (swt) – and every effort to nurture them is an act of worship. 

Learning Through Play: Evidence-Based and Spiritually Grounded 

Decades of research, including guidance from the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), have shown that play-based learning strengthens communication, emotional regulation, and critical thinking. That’s why early childhood systems in countries like the UK, USA, and Canada build their foundation on play. 

The Zahra Trust Nursery mirrors these high standards, integrating global research into a child-centred, Islamic learning environment.  

Every corner of the nursery has been carefully crafted; from sensory play stations and literacy corners to role-play areas like markets and petrol stations. Children experience the joy of learning through everyday themes like transport, animals, and “our world,” helping them connect classroom lessons to the world beyond. 

And what makes this nursery truly unique is its spiritual foundation. Lessons are enriched with the values of the Ahlulbayt (as): compassion, honesty, kindness, and self-respect.  

Here, children are taught that seeking knowledge is not only a right but a sacred duty. 

More Than a Nursery: A Place of Healing 

For children who have lost their parents, experienced war, or suffered deep trauma, this nursery is not just a school. It is a sanctuary. 

Every child receives: 

• A daily hot meal – often the only one they’ll eat that day 

• Emotional care and consistent support 

• Exposure to new experiences through first-time visits to airports, farms, and nature reserves 

• A sense of belonging, stability, and love 

These are children who’ve known hardship before they could even speak. Now, through your support, they are learning to laugh, trust, and dream. 

Built By Believers Like You 

Everything within these nursery walls – from the classroom furniture and colourful books to the meals, resources, and trained staff – exists because of your donations. 

This project is a powerful testament to what we can achieve as a community when we come together in service of those in need.  

And as the new academic year approaches, more vulnerable children are waiting for a chance to learn and grow in this nurturing environment. 

Support the Zahra Trust Nursery and be part of a story that changes lives – one child at a time. 

FAQ