Volume 27 Issue 2 - 09 Feb 2018

From the Principal

Andrew Watt – Principal                        Photo: Ofer Levy

We have launched into Term 1 with a minimum of fuss and a maximum of enjoyment! The transition up to the next Year Group, with new timetables, teachers and content, has progressed smoothly, due in no small part to our caring, professional and well organised staff team. Our students have slipped back into familiar routines and our strong focus on engagement within each classroom has set a culture of high expectations. As JF Kennedy often stated: “A rising tide lifts all boats”. By setting the bar high in terms of punctuality, respect, organisation and work ethic, our students respond accordingly. Of course, this does not mean that there will be no issues! Young people make mistakes and need to be encouraged, reminded, and to see clear consequences for their actions, all within a consistent and caring learning environment. I have enjoyed a variety of experiences, across Kornmehl, Primary and High School, through the Tu BiShevat ceremonies, the Primary School Shabbat celebrations and my playground visits. I have conversed with a range of happy, connected and friendly young people.

This was another busy week, with opportunities to meet with parents and students in both Year 11 and Year 12. It has been great to engage with so many of our parents, and to learn more about our wonderful community. I have been talking about our culture of high expectations and our aspirations for academic excellence, all within a caring, engaging and adventurous learning environment. Our learning experiences are driven by our core values, as a pluralistic, egalitarian Jewish day school. Our motto ‘Mind, Spirit, Being’ encapsulates what we seek to develop in our young people; an open mind, an awakened spirit and an engagement of the whole being within a culture of excellence. Ultimately, we want to take our students on a learning journey that equips them with the values, mind-set, skills and resources to become responsible and ethical global citizens, with a strong sense of pride in their Jewish heritage and identity

An enjoyable lunch with the High School House Captains and Madrichim also provided some excellent insights into what our senior students value about their Emanuel experience and what they feel would make Emanuel an even better school. 

Mr Watt getting to know the Madrichim

Safer Internet day- a message of respecting others online

In High School assembly this week, we acknowledged Safer Internet Day, an annual event across 130 countries worldwide, with this year’s theme about ‘sharing respect’. We explored what respectful online communication looks and feels like within our community, and its impact on the happiness and wellbeing of others. Specifically, we reminded students to respect:

  • The privacy of images and information (i.e. not passing images or information on without knowledge or permission)
  • The feelings of others (i.e. thinking about the impact of what we post online); and
  • The rights of other people – to be treated kindly and fairly.

We talked about the value of respect and wisdom in relation to 2 examples of the misuse of social media; sexting and cyberbullying. The impact of an impulsive decision to send personal images to a boyfriend or girlfriend can be significant, in terms of reputational damage and humiliation, if the images are distributed. Our digital footprint is permanent. Students were also made aware of the relentless, 24/7 nature of cyberbullying and were challenged about how they can respond, as a bystander. For every act of cyberbullying, each bystander has a decision to make:

  • Do they join in? (i.e. by liking a nasty comment, they become part of the problem)
  • Do they ignore? (this is the easy option, but it does not help the person being bullied)
  • Do they stick up for the person? (this pathway displays kindness but requires courage)
  • Do they report it? (seeking support from a teacher or other trusted adult).

The key take-away? Bystanders can reduce the amount and impact of cyberbullying and our students were asked to reflect on how they can be part of the solution.

Helping our young people make good decisions

The Conversation, an independent news and commentary site, recently provided an interesting article on the biology behind adolescent decision making:

“From getting beyond drunk at a friend’s party, to some seriously questionable outfit choices, teenagers often do things that seem outlandishly stupid. But we now know why: the areas of the brain that control decision-making don’t fully develop until early adulthood. A teen’s developing brain places them at greater risk of being reactive in their decision-making, and less able to consider the consequences of their choices. So how can parents help their teenagers learn and apply good decision-making skills?”

I hope that the 6 tips on how parents can help their teenagers learn and apply good decision-making skills (see below) will prove to be a useful guide:

  1. Be aware of upcoming events that may present teenagers with decisions that need to be made. Listen to their expectations about the events (such as whether they expect to drink alcohol). 

  2. Provide scenarios which may present a risk, or will require a decision (such as missing the train home, friends becoming intoxicated) to explore healthy, or safer choices. 

  3. Encourage the teenager to stop and think. Help them recognise ‘when in the moment’ to temporarily remove themselves from a situation to help them make decisions away from direct pressures (go to the bathroom, make a phone call, text a friend). 

  4. Provide a decision-making compass, such as, ‘Would I want mum/dad/grandma/grandpa to know about what I’m about do?’ 

  5. Remind teenagers to ask for help. Ensure they save contact details of people who can be available to talk through options if they’re in a difficult situation (siblings, parents or extended family). 

  6. Use mistakes as learning opportunities. 


Mazal Tov

I congratulate Eden Levit in Year 7, who won 3 silver medals at NSW Track and Field Regional Championships last weekend and Jake Langman (Year 12) who was involved with Story to Screen Digital Storytelling with North Sydney Council last year.  His short film, “Sketch” won both the Peoples Choice and 1st prize.

Coming up next week

  • Monday 12 February
    • High School Swimming Carnival
    • Years K-6 Meet the Teacher 6.00 pm in Lehrer Family Building (MPH)
  • Thursday 15 February
    • ACER Scholarship testing 8.20 am in the MPH
    • ACER Parent Information Session 8.30 am in Angles Leadership and Learning Centre
    • Year 11 Paul Dillon parent presentation 7.00 pm in Millie Phillips Theatre
  • Friday 16 February – Absentee photo day

 

 

From the Primary School

Helen Maynard – Director of Studies K-6

Mathematics groups 2018

As part of our efforts to cater for the breadth and depth of mathematical understanding, Emanuel School goes to great lengths to organise students in groups to further differentiate their learning.

We consider our grouping, in Mathematics along with all subjects, to be flexible. This means that students may change groups depending on their needs. We talk frequently with students and parents about the notion of ‘best fit’ and this is what we strive for in our groupings. We want students to be challenged at a comfortable level to ensure understanding and growth.

Teachers regularly use a variety of strategies to ‘check in’ with students’ progress and adjust groups accordingly. Teachers will do a range of observations and formal assessments to ascertain whether any students need to change their groups.

Naturally, staff will need to take time to get to know students who are new to Emanuel School before they are placed in groups.  Students may change groups from year to year or even term to term. If there are ever any worries that the teacher may have they will contact you.

The magical world of reading

“Books are a uniquely portable magic.” Stephen King, On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft

Reading opens up worlds we could be never be part of, it provides knowledge and most importantly makes us laugh and cry. Books are truly magical.

The influence of parents modeling a love for reading cannot be underestimated. There are many strategies and ideas that can be utilised at home to further open up the world of reading for your child/ren.

 How to raise a curious reader:

  • Begin reading to your child at birth.
  • Let your baby play with the book.
  • Be animated. Use different voices and facial expressions as you read. Make it fun! Choose books that use word repetition, rhymes and predictable text.
  • Decide on a regular time to read each day; even 5 or 10 minutes gets children ready to read on their own.
  • Before reading the book together, have your child take a ‘picture walk’ through the book and make predictions about the story. This can also work for older students before they read a chapter.
  • Encourage a love of words by playing rhyming and word games, singing silly songs, or writing stories together.
  • Satisfy your child’s curiosity – choose books that support your child’s interests, from dinosaurs to wizards.
  • Reread your child’s favorite books whenever asked. After several retellings, ask your child to tell you the story.
  • Involve your child in the reading by asking questions. Ask ‘what’ questions; avoid questions that require a simple ‘”yes” or “no” answer. You might ask: “What do you think will happen next?” Remember to give your child time to think about the question and respond.
  • Take your child to the library to check out books and attend story hours.
  • Subscribe your child to a weekly magazine of interest to them.
  • Read the newspaper together.
  • Model quiet reading time.
  • Books make fantastic presents.
  • Compare and contrast books and movies as a family.
  • Get siblings to read ‘to’ and ‘with’ each other.

The following link provides a multitude of ideas that can be used across many age groups:

www.readingrockets.org/article/18935/

We cannot stress too highly the importance of regular reading at home; this should be encouraged daily including during holiday periods. Reading is a necessary and enjoyable activity which can be shared as a family. It is also interesting to note that once parents perceive their children as proficient readers they stop reading aloud to them. It is widely recognised that reading to your child is still important right through the Primary School years. This link explains some of the reasons why:

www.readbrightly.com/importance-of-reading-aloud-to-big-kids/

Often teachers are asked to recommend good books for students to read. The link below has a list compiled by teachers of the top 100 books children should read before leaving Primary School.

www.tes.com/news/school-news/breaking-news/100-fiction-books-all-children-should-read-leaving-primary-school-%E2%80%93

Meet the Teacher

Please diarise 12 February and join us for our Meet the Teacher evening. Here is the schedule for the evening:

6.00-6.45 pm: Years K-2 parents to meet their teachers in the classrooms

6.45-7.30 pm: Years K-6 parents to hear about plans and directions for the Primary School in the Lehrer Family Building (MPH)

7.30-8.15 pm: Years 3-6 parents to meet their child’s teachers in the classrooms

8.15-8.45 pm: Year 6 parents are welcome to attend an optional Northern Territory information evening in the Year 6 classrooms

Go With The Flow (GWTF) Car Tags

If you would like to collect your child/ren using the GWTF system along Avoca Street in the afternoons, you will need name tags for your car. In order to generate these, please click on this link GWTF Tag and complete your details by 12 February. The tags will be handed out in class in the following week.

Calendar dates

Please refer to the calendar on the Parent Portal for all upcoming dates and events.

https://myportal.emanuelschool.nsw.edu.au/calendars/

 

Devar Torah

Parashat Mishpatim

Sonia Redman, Year 12

Translated into English, the general meaning of Mishpatim is ‘Laws’ and that’s exactly what the subject and content is of this parashah – a long list of detailed rules supposedly passed from God to Moses on Mount Sinai.

It may at first seem like a constricting procession of ‘you shalls’, and ‘you shall nots’, but on closer inspection, the laws set forth in the Parashah give the Jewish people the Torah’s first explicit injunction to protect the stranger. It says: “and a stranger shalt thou not wrong, neither shalt thou oppress him; for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.”.This experience of living as a stranger infuses Jewish tradition for thousands of years to come. As we well know, the Israelites didn’t just endure 400 years living as the stranger in Egypt, but also subsequent centuries living as strangers under foreign, often hard and cruel, powers.

The Torah’s reminder that we were once strangers inspires an important value. Empathy. And in this context, though it appears to have religious origins, the Torah is reminding us that empathy is at the root of what it means to be human. It is difficult to feel connected to many other rules in the Torah, made centuries before our time and to feel inspired to follow their instructions without question when they no longer appear relevant. But, the commandment of empathy transcends time, and as such, universally applies to all Jews, and humans, today. While we still certainly look at the other laws in the Torah and consider how we might translate them into our modern lives, the value of empathy remains intact and unchanging.

Empathy also ensures that as a Jewish people, we end up not just with a set of structured laws and customs, but with a larger sense of a tradition that strives to teach empathy for its own sake. It’s more than not oppressing a stranger because “God said so”.  Because of the centuries of persecution and exile the Jewish people has faced, because we have felt what it is to be abandoned, that we must think with our hearts in order to consider the dictates of morality that are incumbent upon us. 

 

 

 

Tu BiShevat Celebrations

Cherished traditions and new beginnings

Our start of school last week was highlighted by the celebration of Tu BiShevat, also known as Rosh HaShanah LaIlanot – The New Year of Trees and the ushering in of a new chapter in our school history with the welcoming of Andrew Watt.

From our Primary School, participating in engaging sedarim, led and sponsored by the Jewish National Fund, and planting seedlings, to our High School celebrations in Houses and a special tree planting ceremony, honouring our new Principal, it was a week of new beginnings infused with a spirit of hopefulness and positive excitement.

We invite you to take a look at Ma Koreh in this week’s Ma Nishma for a selection of wonderful pictures of our students as they celebrated Tu BiShevat.

Below, you will find thoughtful reflections shared by our High School students as each House celebrated Tu BiShevat as it relates to the values and legacies of its namesake (Rashi, Szenes and Rashi), the ethos of our School and in consideration of new beginnings and growth which we look forward to experiencing under the leadership of Mr Watt.

Rabbi Daniel Siegel

Szenes House

Gabriel Sebban – Year 12

The Jewish festival of Tu BiShevat marks the New Year for Trees and the new blooming season for the fruits produced by these trees. Its purpose is to mark the time when people can begin to eat the fruit of these trees. In VaYikra (Leviticus), it states that fruit of trees may not be eaten during the first 3 years, the produce of the 4th year is for God and thereafter the fruit may be eaten. Judaism sees many similarities between trees and a person. The roots and body of a tree are similar to those of a human; they keep us grounded and connect us to our past, while helping develop our future. The faith that Jews have in our religion connects us to it, showing our commitment to upholding the traditions and beliefs of our ancestors. The tree’s leaves and fruits are similar to our sharing the Jewish tradition. Having others see the leaves and fruits of our tree is like us having an impact on others, through showing our faith and acting through and for our beliefs. Hannah Szenes did this – her actions showing her commitment to the Jewish people and to our Jewish heritage. Her memory lives on as we stay committed to her ideals just as we remain committed to growing fruit from our trees. Trees are steadfast, even when buffeted by strong winds, standing up to strong challenges that threaten its existence, committed to remaining strong and enduring, just like Hannah Szenes.

Michal and Allegra with Andrew Watt

Allegra Goldman and Michal Wolstein – Year 12

A big welcome to our new Principal, Mr. Watt. We hope that our program today has given you an idea of the values that our School, and especially Szenes House, upholds. We know that your commitment to the School will be evident and we are excited to see what new possibilities it brings to our school life.

Rashi House

Mia Nahum – Year 12

As you all know, Rashi is known for his comprehensive commentaries on the Torah and the Talmud. Jews around the world use his commentary to grasp a deeper understanding and knowledge of our tradition. Furthering our Jewish understanding enables us to grow and bear fruit, as does a tree.

 

Tomer Belkin – Year 12

A tree needs to be planted firmly in the earth. The soil is not only the source through which nourishment is absorbed, but it also provides room for the roots to grow.

This is true of a person as well. The Talmud explains: A person whose wisdom exceeds his good deeds is likened to a tree whose branches are numerous, but whose roots are few. The wind comes and uproots it and turns it upside down.

But a person whose good deeds exceed his wisdom is likened to a tree whose branches are few but whose roots are numerous. Even if all the winds of the world were to come and blow against it, they could not budge it from its place. (Pirkei Avot 3:22)

A person can appear successful on the outside, with full branches and a fancy car. But if the roots are few – if there is little connection to one’s community and heritage – then life can send challenges that are impossible to withstand. A strong wind can turn the tree upside down. A person alone is vulnerable to trends and fads that may lead to despair and destruction.

But if a person, irrespective of wealth or status, is connected to community and heritage, then even if all the winds of the world were to come and blow against it, they could not budge it from its place.

Humans require a strong home base, where values and morals are absorbed, and which provides a supportive growth environment. In a world rife with negativity, we need a filter, a safe haven to return to and refresh. A community provides a protective shield – the soil where we can be ourselves, make our mistakes, and still be accepted, loved and nourished.

Nadja Avshalom with Andrew Watt


Nadja Avshalom – Year 12

May our new school year and our new Principal open us up to learning new things and growing as individuals, a school and a community.

Rabin House

Tai Oshlack – Year 12

The potential growth of our school tree is infinite. New branches will grow, leaves will be shed and leaves will sprout. But, no matter what, our roots and trunk, which anchor and support us, will always last. As new branches grow they will create opportunities for the leaves to follow the path and vision of the new branch as it searches for new sources of life for the tree that it now will call home.

Many years ago, here at Emanuel, a vision was created – to make a Jewish school where not only could one succeed academically, but also where the individual would grow and develop as a human being. Emanuel instills in us the ability to develop opinions and fight for what we believe in. This has assisted in the flourishing of our School, as each individual brings something new to our community.

As you know, the name of our House, Rabin, is in memory and honour of Yitzhak Rabin, the 5th  Prime Minister of the State of Israel and a man of vision. Rabin had a vision for peace and did all in his ability to make progress towards this vision. Vision requires a balance between a yet-to-be-realised future and a present reality, between supporting and celebrating ourselves and supporting and celebrating others. As a school, and Houses within a school, we are challenged to live these balances every day. Rabin had a vision, yet to be realised, as do we, as a community and as individuals.

Ashne Amoils – Year 12

Common to our past Principals is the idea that change is necessary for growth and that vision is imperative to initiating and cultivating the required change for our growing community. Our school now has the opportunity to experience a new era of development under the guidance of Mr. Watt. I, am very excited to see what the next chapter of Emanuel’s history has in store for us. May we all flourish together.

Jade Reuveny – Year 12

Reflection on our shared Tu BiShevat celebration:

Following our Tu Bishevat celebrations I left the hall inspired. Our House programs refreshed our knowledge about Rashi, Szenes and Rabin and their vision and legacy which speak to us. We were encouraged to embrace their commitment to our land, people and religion, and to reflect, as well, on what we are committed to in our lives and how we will maintain this commitment. With the commencement of a new Principal, coinciding with the Jewish festival of Tu Bishevat, each House Captain along with Mr Watt planted a tree, signifying the growth we hope to experience under our new Head of School. I am inspired and filled with hope for the future of Emanuel School under the guidance and vision of the motivational and inspirational, Mr Watt.

 

 

 

 

Ma Koreh

Adam Carpenter – Head of Jewish Life Primary

A new year of growth, development and learning at Emanuel School coincided with the festival of Tu BiShevat – the new year for the trees. Last week students participated in various activities the mark the holiday, including a tree planting ceremony with Andrew Watt and in the Primary School, planting herb seeds and a Tu BiShevat Seder run by Yigal Nisell from the JNF.

 

 

 

JNF Educators Israel Tour

Rabbi Daniel Siegel – Head of Jewish Life

The experience of a lifetime

Thirteen members of our Emanuel staff recently returned from the inaugural JNF Educators Study Tour in January 2018. Our staff met with educators of the Israeli Education Department, toured Israel’s holy sites as well as JNF’s land, water, forestation and communal projects.

They visited schools, learned from local teachers and educators, discussed curriculum initiatives and met with experts in the field of ‘environmental entrepreneurship’ and stewardship of the land.

Emanuel participants in this unique program returned inspired and looking forward to sharing their experiences, knowledge gained, and insights with our staff and students.

Please find below reflections of our staff as well as pictures of their special moments in the land of Israel.

Rabbi Daniel Siegel

Sarah Jenkins – Science Teacher

I am so appreciative of the opportunity provided to me by both Emanuel and JNF. It was a valuable experience where I learned lots about Israel, myself and other members of staff. In contrast to Chavayah (on which I was a staff member), I had the opportunity to be a student!

Most valuable to me on the trip was seeing the creative ways that Israel is using technology to overcome physical challenges in its environment. While I continue to question the ethics and sustainability of this, the technology and science is impressive. Additionally, it was great to see what Israeli schools are like – on the Gaza Strip, for Bedouin communities and for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. The social and political stressors are real, and seeing how they are (and in cases-are not) being dealt with was thought provoking.

Lindi Bloch – Kornmehl Teacher

What an inspiring and exciting trip! We have many conversations to open and many possibilities to inspire our thinking and teaching. I look forward to the pre-school teachers being involved in the sessions of unpacking and sharing, as I feel it would be extremely powerful to have these discussions which will create collaboration from early years through the high school .

Thank you for an amazing opportunity to be part of the JNF study tour.

Michelle Favero – Marketing and Communications Manager

Israel – the Holy Land, the Land of Milk and Honey, the land of delectable food, ancient history, solemn prayer, joyful dancing, glorious forests and inspiring architecture. It’s also the Land of very loud voices, far too much cigarette smoke, shoving in the Shuk and a few not-too-scrupulous taxi drivers. 

Israel has meaning far beyond experience.

I have 5 Sabra nieces and so I am no stranger to the Land. When I applied, through Emanuel, to participate in the JNF tour I was concerned that I would mostly be visiting the many tourist sights listed in a Lonely Planet Guide.

To my delight, this was not a tour for the faint-hearted. We drove the length and breadth of this glorious country, visiting educational institutions, research facilities, agricultural projects, kibbutzim, areas of outstanding natural beauty, mountains, tunnels and ate never-ending buffets. We picked fruit, trudged through Tsefat in the pouring rain, witnessed a mass of migrating birds that Hitchcock would have been proud of, cried with parents who mourned of the loss their children, followed the footsteps of soldiers in trenches, paid respect to the ANZAC soldiers buried in Be’ersheva, sang a very moving Hatikvah at Yad Vashem, and travelled by jeep through the Golan Heights.

My mind is a huge ball of wool, unravelling thoughts and feelings as I settle back down to everyday life. I am so grateful for the opportunity that the JNF and our School afforded me. My Blue Box stands proudly on my window sill, waiting for regular donations and as Tu Bishevat arrived I thought of the little Emanuel sapling that we planted in the Levi Forest. With all our wishes it will grow to be strong and provide shade to many generations to come.

Terry Aizen – Director Kornmehl

Thanks for the opportunity to reflect on our recent trip. As a short introduction I would just like to say the following:

I feel the success of the program was bringing together like-minded people (in educational settings), from different backgrounds and cultural groups, to experience the wonder, complexities, highs and lows of such a diverse country and its people – Israel.

JNF really put together a wide array of places and people for us to meet. Something that stood out for me, that I had not realised before, was the role of JNF/KKL (Jewish National Fund/Keren Kayemet LeYisra’el) in Israel and how influential and important they are in developing the land and providing incredible resources (parks, recreation facilities, schools, environmental projects, sustainability, etc.) They are literally all over Israel and are innovatively working towards creating a better country for all the people of Israel. I found this very powerful.

I enjoyed being exposed to an array of activities that stretched the length and breadth of the country.

A few highlights for me were:

A jeep tour through the Golan Heights, visiting the Katzrin Talmudic Village (a place I had been to only 4 months prior, to celebrate my nieces wedding, but which presented itself in a completely different way, by showing us how people in those times lived and survived.), going on the Hula Valley tour and bird watching – a true feast for the senses in every respect. It was incredible to see and hear these huge cranes surrounding us with their majestic beauty as we enjoyed a magnificent sunset!

Being in Jerusalem for Shabbat was indeed special and spiritually uplifting. We attended the Great Synagogue for Kabbalat Shabbat (Friday night Shabbat service), followed by a delicious Shabbat dinner in our hotel.

Visiting ammunition hill on motsa’ei Shabbat (Saturday night), I learnt a lot about what took place on the preserved battle sight commemorating the 1967 Six-day War. This gave me a sense of the miraculous events that occurred and the impact it had on the people of Israel. Listening to the son of one of the fallen paratroopers talking was an emotional experience and highlighted the love, pride and passion that Israelis have for their country.

Travelling down South, was something I had never done before in Israel. I was excited for this part of the tour. Our first stop was Sderot. The evidence of bomb shelters on every corner highlighted to me the trauma and reality that these people have to live with every day. Being able to see the Gaza strip just ahead, in the distance, and learning about how the people have 15-seconds to get into a shelter upon a code-red alert, and how much post-traumatic stress this has created for many of the adults and children living in the area, was confronting.

A wonderful highlight, was visiting Kibbutz Nahal Oz right on the Gaza border and spending the morning in the Gan (pre-school) with some beautiful teachers and young children. We conducted an interactive morning meeting, teaching the children about a few Australian animals and the noises and actions associated with them. Through the beauty of song and music we were able to connect with these gorgeous smiling faces and all enjoyed singing and dancing together. We exchanged gifts from our children at Kornmehl to the children at Nahal Oz. My hope is to develop a lasting connection with the children of this Gan.

Staying on a moshav presented a completely different experience to the beautiful hotels we had been staying in up until then. I found this a reality check and it brought back a warm, homey feel. Visiting all the agricultural sights in the Arava and witnessing what has been created out of the desert was truly inspiring. The Israelis have created a piece of heaven in the Arava and the people who live there are so passionate and dedicated. I enjoyed visiting the Shittim School and seeing the life these children live on this Moshav – the freedom, the connection to nature and the outdoors and the sense of community and belonging was inspiring.

Another highlight was challenging myself to climb Masada. I am pleased to say I achieved this goal and enjoyed the climb along the way.

Also inspiring was visiting the Jordan River Village which provides respite for children suffering from chronic or life-threatening illnesses and for youngsters with disabilities and special needs. Free of charge, it provides these children and their families with unforgettable, interesting and highly enjoyable experiences. As well, visiting the Desert Stars School – where we learnt about the Bedouin culture and their involvement in Israeli society. Talking with some Bedouin teenagers was inspiring. We also had the privilege of hearing from Iris and Gill Slavyn the founder of Lotan’s Way – an organisation that specialises in survival trekking and therapy through the outdoors for teens, often from difficult backgrounds. The organisation was named in honour of their late son Lotan, who lost his life in the Second Lebanon War trying to help fellow soldiers by putting himself before others.

I’ve learned so much about Jewish history and Zionism, about JNF’s role in purchasing and developing the land, about Israel and all its people and all its complexities. I have witnessed first-hand the enormous resilience of those who have suffered trauma and loss and experienced the inspiring projects that are engaging in Tikkun Olam – the healing of our world.

I feel so enriched and much more empowered to take back what I’ve learned and weave it in to the work that I do, here at Emanuel. I feel an enormous amount of gratitude both personally and professionally to Emanuel and JNF for affording me this once in a life time opportunity!

Deborah Beder – Administration

What an amazing experience the JNF Educators Study Tour was. We went to places that tourists are unlikely to see and everywhere we went we met Israelis with stories to tell. We were given a perspective on Israel based on innovative and far-reaching programs. The breadth and depth of information we received has resulted in my having a completely new and different understanding of and feeling towards Israel – a greater connection. From Kibbutz Misgav Am in the North to Kibbutz Nahal Oz in the South, from Jerusalem, with all its history to the new farms of the Arava we were welcomed warmly. Thank you to the JNF and Emanuel School for the opportunity.

Renee Schneider – Kornmehl Teacher

I feel very privileged to have participated in the inaugural JNF Study Tour for Educators. Being in Israel with 61 educators was quite amazing. Travelling from the north to the south of the country, one realises just how tiny Israel is and that this small piece of land we are constantly having to fight for is not much to ask for, in order for the Jewish People to have a homeland. Israel offers some wonderful programs to children and teenagers and all these programs are inclusive of all citizens of Israel, regardless of religion. Imagine being a child who is bound to a wheelchair, but still able to go to camp and even fly down a flying fox, wheelchair and all! The Jordan River Village allows sick and disabled children, five days each year, to feel like a regular kids, engaging in physically challenging activities with all the medical and emotional care that’s needed available. This was just one of many programs that really blew us away.

Seeing the work that is carried out by JNF world-wide, I think about the coins that are dropped into our blue boxes by our students every Friday. Coin by coin, all around the world, we give to the JNF to fund projects that help to build the vision that Theodor Herzl had for Israel all those years ago.

Joseph Peacock – Mathematics Teacher

The Israel JNF-KKL tour was an eye-opening experience. The tour was exceptionally well-organised and the variety of places we visited was incredible. From the cold and misty Golan Heights, through the humid Hula marshes and to the dry and arid Dead Sea region and Masada hike, we experienced much of the breadth of environments that make up the amazing kaleidoscope that is the Israeli experience. The people we met were so welcoming and proud of their land and their heritage, it was no wonder they loved their homeland so much.

Highlights of my trip comprised of wandering the ancient story-laden streets of Jerusalem including the Garden of Gethsemane and the Mount of Olives, climbing the towering visage of Masada, sitting under the desert sky watching the sun set in the Negev, and meeting children and soldiers who emanated warmth and peace whilst living within a few hundred metres of Chevron and Gaza. I was left speechless by the inspirational talks by Bedouin men and women and the compassion and future thinking of the teachers and kibbutzim living outside the safety of the Iron Dome.

There is a beauty and a strength deep within this land that draws one in and lets go reluctantly, if at all. It is a land of contrasts and striking extremes, and yet, woven amongst it all is an overwhelming sense of home and belonging, of love, friendship and desire for peace.

This was a beautiful and moving trip, that has left a lifelong impression on me.

I absolutely loved it.

Holly Dillon – PA to Head of Primary

I’ve been asked excitedly by dozens of people: “How was Israel?” My response is: “It was amazing!” And, it all was. JNF provided us with unlimited opportunities to meet with and learn from every type of person that makes up the incredible country that is Israel. From students, teachers, school principals, mayors, soldiers, scientists to rabbis. Having worked with the Jewish community for many years, my Israel experience resulted in things just making so much more sense to me now. I just get it!

I particularly enjoyed meeting school students and seeing through their eyes how their school environment differs to Emanuel and also listening to teachers explaining how they overcome the daily security challenges and pressures they and the children face. It was impressive to see so many open spaces and opportunities for every citizen to connect with nature whether through the beautiful parklands created through the JNF or for primary school students planting, caring for and harvesting their own fruit and vegetables crops complete with drip irrigation and air temperature control. I found it inspirational to witness the bond between their lives and the connection with their land which is instilled from such a young age.

I am in awe of the passion that the Israeli people have for their heritage, traditions, people and their land. The sensory experience of the contrast of colours and landscape also amazed me. I was fascinated by mystical Tsefat and the impressive subterranean landscape of the Arava Desert region. I feel privileged to have been part of the tour and am incredibly appreciative of the JNF and thankful to Emanuel for such an unforgettable experience.

Important student information

Maxine Chopard – Assistant to the Deputy Principal and Mathematics Teacher

Compulsory attendance at whole-school events

A reminder that compulsory attendance is expected at all whole-school events, including the Swimming Carnival, Athletics Carnival and Speech Night. A medical certificate needs to be forwarded to the School if a student is absent for the event. Students who do not present a medical certificate will be required to do a make-up day which usually falls on a Staff Development Day.

Queuing for quickness

Students wanting to board the School Specials need to queue in the designated bus lines. There are 7 bus lines for afternoon School Special buses.

There are 3 line rows for Primary School and 3 line rows for High School. The 7th row is the 697 Mt Sinai bus.

Students should be aware that loitering around the yard and rushing onto the buses (in other words ‘doing the wrong thing’) may result in the loss of the privilege of taking the School Special.

Opal Cards are still being endorsed by the School and can take up to 2 weeks to arrive at the home address. All students are aware it is an offense to travel without an Opal Card so applications for Opal cards can be made online at transportnsw.info/school-students 

 

 

 

 

From the Head of Music

David Gilliam – Head of Music

Instrumental Ensemble auditions and Chamber Choir auditions

Instrumental Ensemble auditions will be held in Week 3 at various times. Students who are interested should have signed on to an audition time on the appropriate sheet posted outside the Music Office since last Monday. Ensembles open to audition are:

  • Bernstein Concert Band
  • Copland Concert Band
  • Intermediate String Ensemble
  • Emanuel String Orchestra
  • Primary Jazz Combo
  • Junior Jazz Ensemble
  • Intermediate Jazz Ensemble
  • Junior Stage Band
  • Senior Stage Band
  • Flute Ensemble
  • Clarinet Ensemble
  • Junior Chamber Choir
  • Senior Chamber Choir

Participation in a rock band is by arrangement with the Music Department.  If you would like to join a rock band, please email Ms Springford on dspringford@emanuelschool.nsw.edu.au  to register your interest.

Instrumental Ensemble  audition requirements

  • Play 1 piece, or a large section of a piece, that shows you at your best (a solo piece is best).
  • Choose your own major and minor scale and a chromatic scale (choose your best and most interesting scales, and the widest pitch range you can manage smoothly).
  • You will be given sight reading, which means you will be asked to play an unknown piece that is of the level of the ensemble for which you are auditioning.
  • Success depends upon a) availability of positions in the ensemble, b) audition performance c) previous or current ensemble citizenship (punctuality, behaviour, preparedness, practice of parts).

Chamber Choir audition requirements

  • To be eligible to audition for Junior Chamber Choir you need to be a committed member of Junior Choir.
  • To be eligible to audition for Senior Chamber Choir, your need to be a committed member of Senior Choir.
  • Sing a song of your own choice solo or with backing track.
  • Success depends upon a) availability of positions in the ensemble, b) audition performance c) previous or current ensemble citizenship (punctuality, behaviour, preparedness, practice of parts).

The weekly Ensemble rehearsal schedule can be viewed at the following link:  http://tinyurl.com/EnsembleRehearsalSchedule

Links to online forms

To enrol for private tuition: http://tinyurl.com/PrivateTuitionEnrolment

To discontinue private tuition for Term 2 (it is now too late to discontinue for this term)  http://tinyurl.com/PrivateTuitionDiscontinuation

To enrol into the Infant Strings Program: http://tinyurl.com/InfantStringsEnrolment

To discontinue Infant Strings Program for Term 2 (it is now too late to discontinue for this term) http://tinyurl.com/InfantStringsDiscontinuations

 

 

Rabin Bugle

Shabbat Shalom Rabinites

School bags are packed, new routines set and no time to sleep in. The new school year is well on its way and there have been many happy reunions over the last couple of days.  We have had much to celebrate already and many people to welcome. All High School Houses gave a special welcome to our new principal Mr. Watt in the Tu BiShvat celebration with thoughtful speeches and a tree planting ceremony. Rabin House would like to commend our House Captains Tai Oschlack and Alanah Borman and the Madrichim student body on their fine effort and preparations for this event.  

Rabin House officially welcomed our new and youngest Rabinites this week at House Assembly. The Rabin family is growing and we are very fortunate to have Ms Adelstein and Mr Helm, tutors for Rabin 7.1 and 7.2, join our House. Mrs Udovich is making a return as a Tutor for 12.1 Rabin, replacing Mr Burley who will enjoy his well-deserved long service leave. Many of our new students have already shown interest for extra-curricular and House activities and we encourage everyone to make the most of the opportunities at our school.

Rabin House also welcomed back our Head of House, Mr Rembson, this week. Mr Rembson has enjoyed spending time with his family in Europe over the last couple of months. The House Assembly gave us all an opportunity to thank Mr Ezekiel for all his efforts as acting Head of Rabin during the three terms that Mr Rembson was on leave. Mr Ezekiel will, in the months ahead, take on the permanent role as Head of House for the new House at Emanuel School and we wish him all the very best, knowing he will be great in this role.

The Swimming Carnival is on Monday and it is all about good times, participation and giving your best. So – bring your spirit, swimming goggles and loud chants! Rabin House took home the trophy by a narrowest of margins last year thanks to participation points. Let’s see if we can make history by having the most fun and also take home the trophy for third time in a row. Rest up, go for a swim on the weekend and we’ll see everyone bright and early on Monday morning, wearing House Colours and ready to race.

Go Rabin!

Mazal tov:

Eden Levit

Jake Langman

Eden Levit, Year 7, ran away with 3 silver medals at NSW Track and Field Regional Championships in the under 12s at Barden Ridge over the weekend.

Jake Langman, Year 12, was involved with the Story to Screen Digital Storytelling with North Sydney Council in the last term of 2017. His short film, Sketch won both the Peoples Choice and first prize.

Reminder: We would love to acknowledge your achievements or celebrations. Please remember to email Mr Rembson or the House Captains Tai Oshlack & Alanah Borman if you would like to make an announcement or a mention.

 

Rashi Times

Eden Sadra

Olyvea Akres

Hey Rashi, Eden and Liv here… for the last time

Welcome back to 2018! After all meeting Mr Watt at last week’s assembly it has officially sunk it, the new school year has started. Classes are well underway, and our new students are slowly starting to settle in. Speaking of new students, on behalf of the whole High School and especially Rashi, we would like to welcome our new students into the Rashi family, Toby, Arthur, Jade, Oriel, Saul, Lucy, Zac, Cohen, Alexander and Chenyao! We hope you grow to love your Rashi family as much as we love it.

Tu BiShevat, also known as the New Year of the Trees was on Tuesday and to commemorate this, Rashi had an amazing Tu BiShevat ceremony run by Nadia and Mia where several students shared their understanding of why they believed the Torah is like a tree.

Noah Klein in Year 11 stated that: “Trees provide us with fruit, something we can pluck off and take with us, a concrete reward after years of progressive growth. The fruit not only sustains us with vitamins and minerals, but is pleasing to the taste buds, as well. The sweetness of a tree’s fruits, however, pales in comparison to that of the fruits of our Torah. With each new passage explored, our souls are nourished a little more. The deep focus and great efforts required in leading a Torah life bring along an unparalleled gratification and sweet fulfilment. The Torah does not cease to provide reward for one who grabs hold of it.”

We both thought the ceremony was really mind opening and a good way to start the year.

Both Eden and I have had the experience of a lifetime when we spent 6 weeks in Israel on Chavayah. Spending 6 weeks with our best friends in a country with so much history was one of the most inspiring and thought-provoking trips in a lifetime.

The most memorable day for me (Liv) was the two-day hike in the desert through Makhtesh Katan where we pushed ourselves physically and mentally throughout the day to be rewarded with the most outstanding stars you could see and a meteor shower. Sitting around the campfire and singing songs with the rest of our cohort made me realise how lucky I was to be at a school where opportunities like this where not only given, but encouraged. One of my (Eden) most memorable experiences of the trip was our tiyul to a town on the very edge of the west bank called Barta. Not only did I get to see firsthand what we learn about at school but I was so overwhelmed… in a good way of course! We learnt things from locals that got us all so passionately engaged in discussion and I’ll never forget how I felt as we walked the streets that day.

Thanks for reading Rashi, it’s been fun! We wish you all the best of luck this year in all your endeavours. Love you all.

That’s officially it from us…

Liv and Eden signing off

 

Drugs and Alcohol Presentations

Kim Slender – School Counsellor

On Thursday 15 February, Paul Dillon will be addressing the Year 10, 11 and 12 students about issues relating to drugs and alcohol. There will be a parent information evening, which we strongly encourage you to attend, also Thursday 15 February from 7.00 – 8.30 pm in the Millie Phillips Theatre. Please email kslender@emanuelschool.nsw.edu.au to RSVP.

Paul Dillon has been working in the area of drug education for the past 25 years. Through his own business, Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia (DARTA) he has been contracted by many organisations to give regular updates on current drug and alcohol trends. He has also worked with many school communities to ensure that they have access to good quality information and best practice drug and alcohol education. He has written a best-selling book for parents titled ‘Teenagers, Alcohol and Drugs‘ which was released in 2009.

On Thursday, Paul will talk to the parents about ‘Teenagers, alcohol and other drugs 2018: How much influence do parents really have?’. This presentation focuses primarily on alcohol, although the results of the 2013 National Drug Household Survey will be discussed. It will examine what we know about the prevalence of alcohol and other drug use by young people, with a particular emphasis on the latest evidence on the risks associated with teen drinking. There will also be a close examination of the positive influence that parents can have on their child’s drinking behaviour, as well as the barriers that they may face during adolescence. It aims to empower parents with a positive message and assist them in having open and honest family discussions in this complex area.

Given the sensitive nature of the content of the workshops, we would like to give you the opportunity to let us know if you DO NOT want your child to attend.

If this is the case please email me on kslender@emanuelschool.nsw.edu.au to let me know.

Primary Music

Diana Springford – Music Teacher

First days of IP and Instrumental Ensembles are in Week 3 in 2018

Year 3 and Year 6: The first day of IP in 2018 is Tuesday 13 February

Year 4 and Year 5: The first day of IP in 2018 is Wednesday 14 February

Join an Ensemble

If you enjoy the ensemble days in IP then you will love playing in one of our instrumental ensembles. The first taste of ensemble membership is often the Junior String Ensemble for string players (Wednesdays 8.00 am – 8.50 am) and Gershwin Concert Band for wind and percussion players (Tuesdays 7.10 am – 8.00 am). Please contact Diana Springford on dspringford@emanuelschool.nsw.edu.au  if your child is interested.

The weekly Ensemble rehearsal schedule can be viewed at the following link:  http://tinyurl.com/EnsembleRehearsalSchedule  

Auditions for other ensembles including Junior Chamber Choir will take place in Week 3. Information about auditions is in the From the Head of Music page in Ma Nishma.

 

 

Primary Extra-Curricular

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Community Connections – Gesher

Sonia Newell – Development Officer

Journey inside The Sydney Jewish Museum

We hope you all received the email invitation to this very exciting event on 5 March. You are welcome to invite friends who are not parents/grandparents at the School, but please note, bookings are essential. 

This event is only for adults. Our students visit the Museum in Year 6 and Year 10, as part of Jewish Studies.

Please see invitation for more information and here is the link to book:  www.tinyurl.com/Museum2018

 

 

 

Belated Mazal Tov 

Many of our extended Emanuel community are members of the various Maccabi sporting clubs, and what a wonderful way to encourage our children, parents and grandparents to participate in team and individual sports alongside other Jewish people. 

Last December, Maccabi NSW held its Hall of Fame Gala Dinner event, an event that only occurs every 5 years. Since the inaugural event in 1999, the Maccabi NSW Hall of Fame has inducted 21 people, each having contributed to Australian and/or Jewish sport as an athlete or administrator.  At this latest one, 6 more people were inducted, 3 of whom are members of our Emanuel Community, namely grandparent Brian Schwartz AM – for his contribution on the FFA Board for 10 years and a lifetime of involvement with Maccabi including Maccabiah team senior management; past parent Phil Filler, long-time Maccabi player and administrator, serving at the State level and in Maccabiah senior management teams as well as having been President of the Hakoah Club and overseeing the move to White City; and past parent and still an active supporter of the School through the Wolanski Family Specialist Learning Centre, Phill Wolanski AM, who served on the FFA Board for a decade and for his long-time dedication and contribution to Maccabi and Hakoah FC.

Lauren Ehrlich

 

Speaking about Maccabi, did you know that the newly elected President of NSW Maccabi, Lauren Ehrlich, sister-in-law of Emanuel parents Simon and Rebecca Ehrlich, was the Art teacher here at Emanuel School in its very early days?  Lauren who, in 1986 as Head of Art at the time, instigated and physically worked on the refurbishment of the old Nun’s laundry which was then transformed into the Lynette Phillips Art Block. This building underwent major works more recently, opening at the start of last year as our very special Year K classrooms and play space.

 

If you have some news you would like to share with us, please send to: snewell@emanuelschool.nsw.edu.au

 

 

Careers

Claire Pech – Careers Advisor

This week I presented at the Year 11 Information night with Year 11 students and parents.

I mentioned to parents that I would include the links from my talk so here they are. Ideally parents and students should spend some time navigating their way around these sites, and at the minimum save them in their favourites to be used again and again. I really encourage you to set up your jobjump account. This way you can receive their weekly emails as there is a wealth of information out there and being able to have this tailored to your own interests and needs is a great resource for you at this stage.

  

www.emanuelschoolcareers.com.au

 

 

www.jobjump.com.au

This is what I use constantly for general UAC searching to browse the large number of University courses that are available.

www.uac.edu.au is the site used for all university course searches, where you can find ATAR cut offs, what is available and at what institution, combined degrees and a whole lot more.

Year 10

This week I presented to Year 10 about their upcoming Career Avenues testing day on Wednesday 14 February. I welcome any feedback that students and parents have about this process and the group debrief that will take place in May.

Career appointments

For anyone looking to book in an appointment please contact me at cpech@emanuelschool.nsw.edu.au with 3 study sessions you have in the following week and I can book you in. You don’t need to have a particular question in mind, you may just want to start the process off not knowing how this process unfolds. So if you feel that you would like to make a start, feel free to book in a time to see me.

 

 

 

 

From the Parents and Friends

Ruby Berkovic and Jennifer Opit

Hello!

We hope all your children are settling into the new school year well!

First P&F meeting

This week we had our first P&F meeting for the year and were so pleased with the turnout as well as all the fantastic plans we havefor the upcoming year. P&F meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 7.00 pm. Please join us as we value your support and input.

 

 

Purim Disco

We have lots of events planned for the year. The first is our annual Purim Disco held at the School. This is always a highlight of the year for the kids and it’s a great way for the kids (and parents) to socialise ​and have fun. There will be a sausage sizzle and other yummy treats, music, games, activities and prizes for the best costume.
 
The date is Sunday 4 March from 4.00 – 6.00 pm.
The cost is $10 entry per child (adults are free) and $5 for a hot dog and drink. There will be other items available for purchase.
 
Booking is now openwww.trybooking.com/UCAU

Challah orders

You can eliminate the hassle of having to pick up your weekly challah and support the P&F at the same time. The P&F will be selling freshly baked challah every Friday at the cost of $4.50 and you can pick it up on a Friday afternoon at the same time that you collect your kids.
 
There are 9 remaining weeks of Term 1 but only 7 Fridays due to various holidays and the challot must be pre-ordered.
 
Pick up will be in the Adler Courtyard by the play equipment. 
 
If your child is in Year K, please collect your challot from 3.00 pm. If your child is in Years 1-12, it can be collected from 3.00 – 3.45 pm.
 
ORDERS MUST BE PLACED BY WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY.
 
If you are interested, please contact Ruby at rubykb@gmail.com ASAP for payment information.

Mamma Mia

The Emanuel P&F is lucky to have been offered discounted tickets to see the final performance of 

Mamma Mia! The Musical at the Capitol Theatre on Sunday 6 May at 3.00 pm. Not only is this a fundraiser for the School but also the opportunity for a great day out with your family (and other members of the School community) to see what is sure to be an amazing performance!
Booking is now open: www.trybooking.com/UBXB

P&F Camping Trip

Save the date for the first Camping Trip of the year on the weekend of 16 March. This is always a wonderful chance for Emanuel families to have a wonderful time together.
 
Have a lovely weekend
Jen & Ruby

Parent Safety Group

Thank you to our volunteers from last week:

Gary Gordon, Yona Berkowitz, Asnat Meretz, David Khedoori, Dan Novy, Greg Joffe, Lance Michelson, Igal Belkin, Sol Caganoff, Ronen Vexler, Daniel Butt, Peter Freed, Hayley Rom, Michael Bloomfield and Daniel Zines

Parent Safety Group