The Baitul-Ilm Playgroup & Women’s Group is an Islamic Playgroup operating alongside a Muslim Women’s group. At present, as a playgroup, the mothers look after the children (they have no paid staff looking after the children). Some women who don’t have children or preschoolers, and occasionally women who are thinking about or have recently converted to Islam also attend The Islamic Playgroup provides an environment for children aged up to 5 years old to learn Islamic Studies, English and Arabic language. This prepares children where English is not their first language to get a step up before entering primary school. Mothers bringing their children to the playgroup have access to support from other mothers at the centre with welfare needs, counselling, health issues and settlement issues. Regular presenters are also invited to come to the centre and talk on issues such as women’s and children’s health and development. This environment provides the opportunity for socialising with other Muslim women. The Baitul-Ilm Trust in association with the Concordia Institute of Business is delivering NZQA certificated courses through the Southern Institute of Technology Zero Fees programme. Since 2007, fifteen women from the group have completed courses in English and Computing. Other courses offered include Teacher Aiding, Clothing Design & Manufacturing, Small Business Management and Health Sciences.