Ma Koreh
Adam Carpenter – Head of Jewish Life Primary
The Year 6 students and parents marked their final Pathways ceremony, celebrating Shabbat and their graduation from Primary today. The morning began with a formal graduation ceremony in the Millie Phillips Theatre, with speeches from Mrs Milner and parents Ashley and Keren Rockman, who reflected on the journey through Primary and this moment of transition, as the students look towards High School. Year 6 students and their class teachers: Ms Cresswell, Mr Lukins and Mr Wilbury also shared reflections, highlights and expressions of gratitude for the Year 6 experience.
Following the graduation ceremony, students lead their families in an interactive and participatory musical celebration of Shabbat, using a Shabbat Shiron (songbook) filled with student artwork, commentaries and poetry.
Highlights included:
- Josh New accompanying student performers and musicians in leading our favourite Shabbat songs and prayers
- Lecha Dodi performed to the tune of Octopus’s Garden
- Students performing a Israeli folk dance to Tzaddik Katamar
- Rapping of V’Shamru, with backing beat boxing
- Upbeat, musical renditions of Oseh Shalom, Hinei Zeh Bah and Salaam performed by students
- Parents bestowing a blessing, the Birkat Banim on their children
- Ruach dancing together on the basketball courts
Thank you to Ms Stacey Rosenfeld for co-ordinating the morning tea and the special student graduation gift bag, which included Eddie Jaku’s Book the Happiest Man on Earth, the Yearbook, the student’s clay hanukiyah and some ritual items to celebrate Shabbat and Hanukkah.
Thank you to the Year 6 class teachers for the dedication, care and commitment shown to the Year 6 students throughout the year. Todah Rabah to the Hebrew staff, Morah Gaida, Mia Shapiro and Joshua New for working with, and preparing the students for, the Shabbat celebration and to Ben Marshall for his AV support..
