All students study Jewish Studies, this enables Jewish students to explore more fully their identity, history and culture but also allows non-Jewish students the opportunity to think about their own religious ideas and to focus on the elements of religion and culture that unite us rather than focusing on difference and division. Within the Jewish Studies curriculum is a deliberate focus on personal faith and the practical application of this for all students as well as the study of Holy books, Holy places, the treatment of animals, the importance of charity, taking responsibility, taking on challenge and the exploration of universal themes such as family relationships, kindness and hospitality, dedication, jealousy, rivalry and the impact of unkind words and significance of respect. Students with previous Jewish experience are required to study Ivrit as a modern language in order to enhance their understanding of Torah and Judaism, other students study French as a second modern language to Spanish.
All students in years 7 & 8 study a full range of subjects which includes Maths, English, Science, Jewish Studies, History, Geography, Spanish (plus French or Ivrit as above), Physical Education, Music, Drama and Art. In the Enterprise and Creative Technologies Department we aim to give students a taste of a large range of technologies and these include Computing, Food Technology, Design Technology, Resistant Materials and Electronic Systems and Control. In year 8 we also run a small nurture group designed to support the most vulnerable students in the year group, this was in response to the significant needs of some members of the year group. In the nurture group students cover all of the curriculum detailed above but receive extra support in English and Maths and a greater focus on exposing students to greater opportunities outside of the classroom designed to build up their confidence, personal skills and team work.
In addition to the formal curriculum students participate in a wide range of activities through the Kehila Department and other extra-curricular opportunities including volunteering awards, opportunities to explore their faith and culture as well as drop down days of focused weeks including LGBT week, PSHCE days and celebrations such as Purim. In addition, we have many clubs and enrichment opportunities for example many Sports clubs, our Transport Ambassadors, STEM club and Dungeons and Dragons. Students also can play a leadership role in our school through our Haderech allowing students the opportunity to participate in student voice, join the student council or lead on key issues that are important to them. Our Jewish Studies department also leads on opportunities for students to consider their religion, identity and context through clubs such as lunch and learn across all year groups.
All students in years 7-11 participate in Tefila everyday during registration which provides them with a time to reflect on key Jewish teachings and their context in our modern and diverse society as well as allowing all students a moment of silence with which to start the day.