The ‘Shabbat Programme’ is an integral part of the Bar/ Bat Mitzvah process where year 7 and 8 pupils examine what it means to be a Jewish adult. The Shabbat Programme focuses on begin Jewish in the 21st century and the challenges that entails. Pupils learn about the ways they can lead an actively Jewish life through social action, enhancing their Jewish identity and developing a sound knowledge of Jewish history. Pupils will also look at the history and development of the state of Israel and will address the ways that Israel is portrayed in the UK and the struggles that the state faces.

The approach to learning in the main here is informal. Pupils learn through kinaesthetic means and through discussion with one another. Jewish text and thought is used to support learning rather than confuse it. This way they are able to apply what they have learnt to their Jewish lives. The teachers on the Programme use a variety of means to ensure that pupils are able to reflect on what they have learnt and Pupils can utilise the Programme to become more involved the FRS community. The uniqueness of our programme enables pupils to see that becoming Bar/Bat mitzvah is not just about becoming an adult in terms of synagogue life but also becoming an adult in terms of contributing to the community.

FRS recognises that Judaism means different things to different people and we have planned the Shabbat Programme around the concept of fluidity. We want young people found a form of Judaism that was comfortable to them and the ‘Shabbat Programme’ enables them to do exactly this.

From September, we have re introduced our Shabbat Programme to ensure that the BM group gets the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the Shabbat service in the months before their Bar/ Bat Mitzvah. We are also running a Shabbat Café on a monthly basis to allow families the opportunity to understand and engage in the BM process. There will also be opportunities for learning outside of the synagogue setting where we will concentrate enabling the BM class to build a strong group identity and prepare them for future involvement in the Jewish Community.

Click here for term dates for Shabbat Programme.