Hagit Bar-On, Head of Primary Jewish Studies

New beginnings start with grandparents

On Friday, our school was filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished memories as we celebrated Grandparents’ Day. It was a day dedicated to honouring the special bond between grandparents and their grandchildren and sharing in the richness of our Jewish traditions.

The day commenced with a heart-warming assembly that brought tears of joy to our eyes. Students showcased their love for Shabbat through songs and Rosh Hashanah prayers. Year 2 students dazzled us with a Rosh Hashanah dance, and K-6 students shared anecdotes about why they hold their grandparents in such high regard. You may wish to hear their thoughts here.

We were fortunate to have Morah Adina, our Head of Jewish Life, and Rabbi Ninio tell stories that ended with the magical words, “and they lived happily ever after”. To conclude the assembly, students and their grandparents joined in an enthusiastic singing of the prayer “Avinu Malkeinu,” accompanied by our talented pianist, Novak.

The excitement continued with a series of engaging workshops tailored to different year levels, each offering a unique experience:

• Year K: Our youngest learners explored the significance of the word “Shofar” and its Hebrew meaning, “Leshaper” (to improve). Through thoughtful discussions, they, along with their grandparents, discovered ways to enhance themselves and make the world a better place.
• Year 1: Students and grandparents joined forces to create clay plates with apple and honey bowls. The artistic process of moulding and painting these vibrant plates added a colourful touch to the day.
• Year 2: Creative spirits soared as students crafted 3D Shanah Tova Cards decorated with sparkling papers and heartfelt blessings in English and Hebrew, spreading joy to family and friends.
• Year 3: Year 3 students crafted elegant Challah Covers from velvet fabric, decorated with Rosh Hashanah symbols and the Hebrew words “לכבוד שבת ויום טוב” (in honour of Shabbat and Festivals). They also received beautiful apple candles, thoughtfully made by Venetia Kalinko, a grandmother from Year 3 and Year 5.
• Year 4: In a challenging yet rewarding endeavor, students crafted artistic apples from book scrap papers, promising a stunning addition to their Rosh Hashanah tables.
• Year 5: Year 5 students and their grandparents participated in a meaningful Rosh Hashanah Seder, embracing Sephardi traditions and the symbolism of various foods, such as dates, pomegranates, carrots, and beetroot.
• Year 6: Students delved into the tale of Jonah and the Whale, creating a Jonah Paper Midrash with different coloured papers and shapes, each with profound meaning.

The day concluded with a delightful morning tea, accompanied by the melodies of our Jazz Band. As we shared delicious treats and engaging conversations, the sense of togetherness and tradition continued to flourish.

Until we gather again next year, I extend my warmest wishes for a Shanah Tovah U’Metukah to all grandparents, parents, friends, students, and colleagues. 

Thank you to Sharon Arnott for taking photographs and capturing this special morning – you can see a selection of these amazing photographs in “Spotlight on…”

May your dreams be painted with the brightest of colours and may the bonds between generations continue to strengthen.