As we look ahead to the new school year, we are excited to share three key opportunities planned for our incoming Year 9s. These programmes are designed to strengthen the bonds within the cohort and offer enriching new experiences.
1. GCSE in Religious Studies (AQA)
We are pleased to be offering an opportunity for your children to take an early GCSE Religious Studies (AQA) course. This is a fantastic chance for your child to gain an additional qualification in a supportive and engaging environment. Our small and supportive group will learn essay-writing techniques, exam-taking strategies, and critical thinking, all while gaining valuable Jewish knowledge.
If you and your child would like to receive more information about GCSE please sign up here Muswell Hill Synagogue – Year 8-9 GCSE 2026/27 Sign Up – Fill in form.
2. Community Chesed (Kindness) Projects
These projects offer meaningful ways for our young people to live out Jewish values.
· Activities: We will start by delivering honey cakes to housebound members of the community ahead of Rosh Hashanah, with the goal of building ongoing relationships through repeat visits during the year. There will also be opportunities to take a leading role in organising our Mitzvah Day collection.
· Communication: I will communicate all Chesed opportunities via the Year 9 WhatsApp group (The Year 8 group will automatically roll over). If you are not yet on this group, please [join here].
3. Learn2Lead (In partnership with Tribe)
This highly regarded two-year youth leadership programme supports teenagers in developing leadership skills while deepening their connection to Jewish identity and Israel.
· Topics: Sessions explore leadership, hadracha, Jewish values, mental health and wellbeing, communication, public speaking, personal safety, and contemporary issues.
· Benefits: Graduates are well-prepared for paid Madrichim/Youth Leader roles within the shul and wider Tribe opportunities. Participation also contributes towards the “Skills” section of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
· Schedule: Once per month, Sunday evenings from 5–7pm, starting October 2026.
· Cost: Approximately £200 per year.
· Attached is a draft course overview.
· How to sign up: Please complete this form by 13 July.
We are so excited for the year ahead and hope your children will join us. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions at all.