From the Principal

Andrew Watt – Principal

This will be the final edition of Ma Nishma for 2023. Looking back, we can celebrate each student’s engagement in their learning and the progress they have made, the myriad special events, the sport, music and other co-curricular activities, community service and the friendships forged over the year. Despite the significant challenges resulting from the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, our school community has joined together to support Israel and provide strength and comfort for each other. Our staff team have been wonderful in maintaining a culture of care and calm, despite experiencing sadness and loss themselves. We are fortunate that when our young people walk through our gates, they enter a sanctuary, where they can focus on their learning, connect with their Judaism and enjoy positive relationships.

Mini Machane Nes Ha’Or (Miracle of Light)

Whilst the Israel Immersion (Chavayah) program would be impossible to replicate, our Year 10 students experienced both the group bonding and the opportunities for collective Jewish experiences, with a focus on spreading light in dark times and unifying as a Jewish people in the face of challenges to our identity and way of life. The activities enjoyed throughout the week included a hike from Malabar to Bronte, Peulot on campus, an Israel Day, a Community Day, and a Hadracha (Leadership) Day. The events for the week culminated in a beautiful musical Kabbalat Shabbat at Watson’s Bay. Our hope is that this will have been a special time for each of our students.

Thank you to Kobi Bloom, Sidney Melamdowitz and the Informal Jewish Life team for the hours of preparation required to run this week.

The Year 10 students walked from Malabar to Bronte learning the story of Chanukah along the way. They capped the day off with a swim at Bronte and a Chevrutah session on Jewish identity and the shape of the Chanukiah.

Farewell and Thank you to our Departing High School Staff

As always, farewelling staff who have been with us, for some across many years, is bitter-sweet. We are glad for their new opportunities and the freshness of a change of environment… but we will miss them!

The following staff will depart at the end of the year, with our sincere best wishes:

• Natalie Lijovic (Science/Mathematics)
• Hilary de Joux (French)
• Murat Korkut (Mathematics)
• Danny Burley (Music)
• Dylan Kramer (Teacher’s Aide)
• Ariel Schronberger (Strength and Conditioning)

We wish Jessica Shanahan (English), Michelle Lyons-Zwarenstein (Maths) and Rebekah Keong (Visual Arts) well, as they take leave across 2024. A number of staff will complete their temporary contracts, and we are grateful for their contribution to our teaching and learning and wellbeing programs. Thank you to Virginia Harding, Paul Sutton, Jessica Yendell, Heather Allen, Ryan Oakes, Kerry Gilmour and Talia Weinberg.

Year 6 Pathways Graduation and Shabbat 

This special, annual event provided our Year 6 students and their families the opportunity to reflect on the growth, learning and experiences across their Emanuel Primary School journey. Many of our Year 6 students have been with us since Kornmehl or Kindergarten. The speeches by the Year 6 class teachers, Year 6 students and long-time Emanuel parent Monica Rosenfeld provided an insight into the special relationships and experiences that have occurred during Primary School. Tany Milner’s speech incorporated a selection of expressive Yiddish sayings and words, that captured many of the experiences of this cohort. Year 6 provides many leadership experiences for our students. They have embraced these opportunities with energy, creativity and responsibility. These qualities were on display, as the students led their families in a ruach-filled celebration of Shabbat, filled with our favourite Emanuel songs and tunes. 

Mazal tov to our Year 6 students and a huge thank you to the Primary Executive, Adam Carpenter, Year 6 teachers, and the Hebrew and Jewish Life teams.

Innovation Showcase

Visiting the Innovation Showcase

In this year’s Innovation Showcase, the Emanuel School Innovation Team presented an exhibition of student works ranging from Kindergarten to Year 12, illuminating the depth and breadth of our students’ engagement with design thinking, STEAM, and technology. The showcase was a vibrant testament to our commitment to fostering innovation and creativity across all year levels. Our students demonstrated exceptional skill in using technology not only as a tool for learning but also as a medium for expressing their ideas in compelling ways. This event brought to the fore projects that exemplified the integration of technology in education, showcasing everything from intricate coding exercises to imaginative STEAM applications.

The showcase was a culmination of our students’ year-long journey of exploration and discovery. It provided a platform for our young innovators to display their projects, which ranged from dynamic digital presentations to sophisticated physical models. This event not only celebrated their achievements but also highlighted the significant role that technology and innovative thinking play in modern education. By bringing together diverse works from across the School, the Innovation Showcase was a remarkable opportunity for the entire Emanuel community to witness and appreciate the incredible learning and growth that has transpired throughout the year.

Mazal Tov

Our 1sts Basketball team have progressed to the quarter finals of their division of the Australian Championships, after finishing undefeated in the pool stage. Their last two matches resulted in 59-39 and 64-45 wins! Sending them all the best for their future matches.

Quote of the Week

“If you look at history, innovation doesn’t come just from giving people incentives; it comes from creating environments where their ideas can connect.“ ~Steven Johnson, Science author and media theorist

This is the last Ma Nishma of the term. I wish you and your family a Chanukah sameach and a wonderfully relaxing break!

From the Head of Jewish Life

Adina Roth – Head of Jewish Life

This past weekend, we experienced a historical moment, that we will all remember for years to come, when the hostages started to come back to Israel from the Gaza strip in a prisoner exchange. Rabbi Donniel Hartman commented that the Jewish people’s agonising, rallies, prayers and activism about the hostages is testament to our great love for each other and the great pain we have all felt. This is why, as relieved as the abductees are to be back with their loved ones, they keep repeating the same refrain, “we can’t be fully happy until everyone is home”.

In this week’s Parsha, Vayishlach, we find a famous long awaited meeting, where the two brothers, Eisav and Yaakov, are reunited after many years. After stealing the blessing from his Eisav, Yaakov ran away from his very angry brother. Eventually, 28 years later, it is time to return to the land of Canaan, but to achieve this, Yaakov has to reconcile with his brother. Before they meet, Yaakov is scared for his life. He sends his brothers gifts of appeasement, he prays to God and he has a mysterious struggle with an angel all night long. Eventually, the next day, they meet up. Yaakov is so nervous of Eisav, that he bows seven times before him, and then we are witness to a famous kiss, Vayeshikeihu, and Eisav kissed him.

This is the most famous kiss in the Torah – so famous that in the actual Torah itself, it has little dots on top of the word, as if an ancient scribe is saying “notice me”. There is a debate in the Midrash between Rabbis Shimon and Yannai about what these curious dots may mean. Rabbi Shimon says the dots indicate that Eisav was ready to make up with his brother and that he came with his whole heart to this moment. Rabbi Yannai says the opposite – Eisav was still mad, and he pretended as if he was going to embrace his brother but he came with bad intentions. The dots were an indication that he tried to bite his brother!!

I have never liked the bite theory. I want to believe that after 28 years Yaakov and Eisav are really able to grow up and make nice. But when I think about what the Jewish world is going through at the moment, I understand this strange kiss with the dots. To me, it’s the moment of relief that still has some pain attached. It’s the moment that you are so grateful that some people are coming home, while you are hurting because others are not. This past week, I attended a Jewish community singing experience called Kooloolam, where people got together to sing for the hostages. 400 people stood together and sang a song called Coming Home. I pray it will get to the point as the Jewish people, where we can enjoy the embrace of all the people coming home without the bite, without hanging by a thread each day to hear more good news.

I know for me, this experience of ‘a kiss with a bite’ feels all too real as we end the school year. On a personal note, this marks the end of our first year in Sydney and at Emanuel. While it has not been easy to leave our lives and loved ones behind, the end of a year marks a sweet time to look around at the beautiful people we have met here, the Emanuel School community of staff, teachers and families who have welcomed us. It has brought us sweetness and comfort to think we have come to this good place. Yet even now as we begin a long-awaited holiday in our new home, this December, part of us will be thinking about the situation in Israel and praying for the return of all loved ones to their families and for peace. For many of us, this December will be somewhat fraught and not an all-out celebration. But this is surely the meaning of being human; to hold the joy of summer, of family and friendship, relaxation, ocean and gelato alongside the brokenness of our fractured world. There is still much work to be done, but for now, I wish us all a good rest.

I want to thank all of you for reading my Ma Nishma articles. I love interacting with you.

Shabbat Shalom, Nesiah Tovah to those who are traveling, L’chu B’shalom U’bo’u B’shalom, Go in peace and come in peace.

Ma Koreh

Adam Carpenter – Head of Jewish Life Primary

Year 6 Pathways Graduation and Shabbat Celebration  

Family and siblings joined the Year 6 students and their teachers for their final Pathways celebration today.

The Graduation Ceremony provided everyone present with an opportunity to reflect not only on the many experiences and successes of Year 6, but also the whole Primary School journey.

Speeches from Ms Milner, parent Monica Rosenfeld, the Year 6 class teachers and Year 6 students captured the learning, experiences, memorable moments and special relationships that have made 2023 and the whole of Primary School at Emanuel so special. Students were presented with their graduation certificate and gifts from the School, which included Eddie Jaku’s book, The Happiest Man on Earth. 

This was also an opportunity to acknowledge and thank our Year 6 parents for their support and commitment to the school and their child’s education and the many specialist teachers and staff who have nurtured the students throughout Primary school, from Kornmehl to the present day.

Students then led their families in a musical celebration of Shabbat, filled with singing, music and ruach. Using a special songbook filled with student artwork and reflections, the Year 6 group led Shabbat celebrations.

Todah rabah to the many, many staff involved in today:

• Ms Stacey Rosenfeld for her amazing organisation and attention to detail in all elements of the event.
• The Year 6 Hebrew team of Morah Bar-On, Morah Erika, Morah Jenny, Morah Orly and Morah Martine for working with the students on their Shabbat prayers and songs.
• Morah Gaida, Noah Klein and Olyvea Akres for teaching and preparing the students.
• Ms Cresswell, Mr Lukins and Ms Neutze for their support, enthusiasm and dedication to the Year 6 students throughout the year.  
• To the Maintenance Team and administrative staff who assisted in the gift preparation, campus organisation and morning tea.
• Ofer Levy, parent photographer for capturing the beautiful moments of the morning.

Mazal Tov and Kol HaKavod to the Year 6 students on their graduation and on their ruach!

Adon Olam Inspired commentary by Ciel Sharabani Kat and Ella Cohen-Peace Medium

Hinei Ze Ba Inspired Artwork by Joel Hersch Medium

Kol HaOlam Commentary by Max Sher Medium

Lecha Dodi Artwork by Ruth Fekete Medium

Lecha Dodi commentary by Ivy Kery Medium

Psalm 92 Reflections by Ari Efrat and Nathan Joshua Medium

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Yedid Nefesh Inspired poem by Oscar Glikin and Dan Kalinko Medium

Primary News

Natanya Milner – Head of Primary School

With less than one week left of the School year, I can’t believe how 2023 has flown by. Thank you to our amazing community for your support throughout the year. Whether it has been attending events, supporting initiatives, or even navigating some of the trickier moments, we remain grateful for the partnership and commitment of our community in working together to help our children and school to be the best they can.

I would like to thank the Board and the P&F for their contributions throughout the year. As David New finishes as Board President and Justine Hofman as Head of P&F, I would like to thank them deeply for the commitment, time and energy that they have given to the School in these volunteer roles.

As we enter the school holidays, I wish you all a very special time together. With many challenges in the world, I feel so grateful for the special time ahead with family and friends. Wishing you all a wonderful Chanukah and a happy, healthy new year. May you enjoy time together and may it be filled with rest, rejuvenation and joy. 

Staffing

I would like to thank the incredible Emanuel team for their efforts throughout 2023. The executive, teaching, support and administration staff have all contributed to the success of this year and we are blessed to have such a dedicated team. 

Sadly, we always have some farewells for the end of the year. Lauren Butler has been at Emanuel for eight years and over this time, she has been a much-loved teacher, mentor and role model for many students. We are grateful for her efforts both in the classroom and with the School’s debating program. Lauren’s warmth and positivity will be greatly missed. I wish her all the very best for her next steps and know she will always remain a part of the Emanuel family. Danny Burley has been a much-loved music teacher over the past 16 years. He has also led various choirs and ensembles. We have been grateful for his amazing accompaniment, recorder mash ups and costumes over the years, especially the fabulous glasses! We will miss Danny and wish him every success. We farewell two wonderful teachers who have been on temporary contracts this year. Talia Weinberg has taught Hebrew and Jewish Studies and Jessica Yendell has taught Music this year. Both have been involved in a large range of events beyond the classroom. I thank them both for their hard work and commitment and wish them all the best for the future. We say a ‘see you soon’ not a ‘farewell’ to Tanya Jeckeln and Rolene Silver. Tanya will be taking leave for the whole of 2024. Rolene will be on leave in Term 1 and will be returning from the beginning of Term 2. We wish them both wonderful adventures.

Innovation Showcase

It has been fantastic to see so many innovative projects and student works on display in this week’s Innovation Showcase. Mazal tov to all the students who have been involved! I would like to thank Josh Aghion for all his work in Innovation over the year and in preparing for this showcase, and Chrystal Rimmer for so expertly assisting in all things ‘innovation’ in the Primary School. Please see Josh’s article for more details.

Year 6 Pathways and Graduation Ceremony

This morning’s Year 6 Pathways and Graduation ceremony was a very special way to end the year and celebrate with our Year 6 students and their families. I would like to thank the students for their contributions to Emanuel over the years and especially this year as they have led the Primary School through their various portfolios and leadership positions. I’d like to thank Adam Carpenter, Leanne Cresswell, Eamon Lukins, Jessica Neutze and Stacey Rosenfeld for organising a beautiful and meaningful ceremony for us.

Presentation Events

We look forward to celebrating the end of the year with you at our Presentation events on Tuesday 5 December 2023.

• K-2: All students should arrive at school as usual by 8.20 am on Tuesday 5 December 2023 in full school uniform. If your child has PE on Tuesday, they are welcome to bring their sports uniform or sneakers to change into after the ceremony. We will begin at 8.45 am. 
• 3-6: All students should arrive at school and head to their classrooms between 5.30 pm – 5.40 pm. They should be in full school uniform including ties and blazers for Years 5 and 6. The event will begin at 6.00 pm.

Shabbat shalom

Innovation Showcase

Joshua Aghion – Co-ordinator of Innovation (K-6)

This week, we celebrated the remarkable achievements of our students in Innovation projects throughout the year.

The Innovation Showcase was a testament to the creative thinking, mindset, and dispositions fostered by our program at Emanuel. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all students and parents who participated in this event. It was truly inspiring to witness the students proudly presenting their work to their parents and engaging with the diverse learning experiences of their peers across the school.

This term has marked a new era for Innovation at Emanuel. The introduction of our purpose-designed Imaginarium, with a learner-centric approach, has been a phenomenal opportunity for our students. Our lunchtime clubs are now bustling with students enthusiastically engaging in design, critical thinking, and skill development. The excitement around the 3D Printer is palpable, as students queue daily, bringing a sense of wonder to our corridors. Furthermore, our teachers are incorporating the Imaginarium into their daily lessons, demonstrating that innovation extends beyond technology and can be integrated into all subjects.

During the holidays, we encourage you to explore KiwiBox, which offers science and innovation kits for at-home learning. For students with a keen interest in coding and electrical circuits, similar to the MicroBits used in our classes, the STEM Box is an excellent option.

As we conclude the year, I would like to express my profound gratitude to our community for its unwavering support of Innovation at Emanuel. We eagerly anticipate 2024, filled with even more enriching opportunities for our students.

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Kornmehl

Terry Aizen – Director of Kornmehl

End of the Year

This week the Pre-school celebrated the end of the year with three very special concerts for each group. These were a heart-warming and memorable experience for both parents and children alike. The Starfish and Dolphins concert included a graduation ceremony for all the children moving into Year K next year or up to the Dolphin group.

For the children, the concerts were filled with excitement and a sense of accomplishment. They showcased their talents, skills, and newfound confidence, leaving a lasting impression on their parents and teachers.

Thank you to all our amazing parent helpers this week. We appreciate your support enormously to help prepare for these special events.

As parents watched their little ones perform, a mix of emotions emerged. Pride swelled within them as they witnessed their children’s growth and development throughout the year. There was also a sense of nostalgia, realising that many of the children were moving up to Kindergarten in 2024, marking a significant milestone in their educational journey.

As they prepare to embark on their next chapter, the transition to Kindergarten brings a blend of anticipation, curiosity, and perhaps a touch of apprehension. Nonetheless, both parents, teachers and children are filled with hope and optimism for the future, knowing that this is just the beginning of an exciting educational adventure.

We know that the children are ready to take on new challenges next year, whether it’s going to Year K or moving up to be a Starfish or Dolphin. We look forward to 2024 and sharing another year together. 

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As the Pre-school year comes to a close, it is a time of reflection and celebration for families, children, and teachers alike.

This year has been filled with lots of wonderful explorations, with learning through play both inside and outside the classroom, many opportunities for creativity, and making cherished memories that will be treasured for years to come. 

Families have witnessed their children’s growth and development, marvelling at the milestones achieved, friendships formed, and newfound knowledge and skills acquired. Bonds have been strengthened, as we all worked together to create a nurturing and supportive environment.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude and sincere thanks to the teachers, for their unwavering dedication, commitment, patience, and expertise throughout the Pre-school year. Your tireless efforts have made a profound impact on the lives of the children, shaping their minds, nurturing their talents, and instilling a love for learning. Your passion for education and your ability to create a nurturing and inclusive environment have not gone unnoticed. 

Countless hours have been spent planning engaging learning experiences, providing individualised support, and fostering a sense of belonging in the groups. Your expertise and guidance have helped the children grow spiritually, academically, socially, and emotionally. Thank you for being a source of inspiration, for your endless encouragement, and for going above and beyond to ensure the success and happiness of each child.

As we bid farewell to this chapter, we look back with gratitude and pride, knowing that we have laid a strong foundation for the children’s future educational journey. The end of the Pre-school year brings a sense of closure, but also excitement for the adventures that lie ahead. 

I would also like to thank Mr Tom Hagl and his team from security, in particular – Mr Max Kozmine, who made sure we were kept safe and sound every single day.

On behalf of the entire Pre-school community, I would like to extend warm wishes to all our Kornmehl families for a restful and rejuvenating holiday.

May this special time be filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments spent with loved ones. May the glow of the Chanukah candles bring warmth and happiness to your homes and a Chanukah filled with light and hope.

Happy Birthday

We wish a very special and happy birthday to Judah Been (6), Allec Tsypom (5) and Aliza Silvera (5), Raphi Heitner (5), and Willow Berger (4).  We also wish our wonderful Admin assistant Jenny Senator a very happy birthday. 

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Visitors from Israel

Hagit Bar-On, Head of Primary Jewish Studies

Hi everyone!

Guess what? We had some awesome visitors from Israel during Term 3 – Yael and Yiftach, two cool young adults who finished High School and hopped on over to our side of the world.  

They are part of an Israeli Program that sends young adults abroad to Jewish Day schools before they dive into army life, to teach and excite Jewish kids about Israel.

In Israeli Slang, they are called “Shinshinim” because they are doing a year of community service before they are drafted to the army.

So, while they were hanging out with us in Sydney, things got a bit heavy on October 7. Luckily, their families weren’t directly affected, but Yael and Yiftach went through some tough times. They were shocked and understandably sad like all of us. But you know what’s amazing? Despite all that, they became even more passionate about teaching our students all about Israel.

These two brought energy with regular Pe’ulot (activities) that shed light upon Israel, mixed in some fun games and catchy tunes. They showed off cool spots in Israel, shared some tasty Israeli food, and got our students to write notes to be placed in the Kotel. Yael and Yiftach took those notes home with them to place in the Kotel when they flew back to visit their families.

Our students totally clicked with Yael and Yiftach. They are close in age, share similar passions, and the connection was real. We were seriously lucky to have had them with us, and we’re sending them both good vibes for whatever comes next.

Lots of love to Yiftach and Yael and thank you for being with us!

Yiftach and Yael with our High School students

With our Year 4 students

Neighbourhood Dispute

Sonia Newell – Development Officer – Alumni & Community Relations

As the School year comes to an end next week, this is our final issue of Ma Nishma for 2023. I want to thank our amazing community for your contributions to my page throughout the year and for your positive comments as you read about community-related events and members of our extended School community each week. I look forward to your contributions again next year.

Neighbourhood Dispute

Neighbourhood Dispute by Ofer Levy

Shalom turns 50 – 50 Stories and Recipes

To mark the 50^th anniversary of Shalom a very special commemorative cookbook A Taste of Our Community, was launched last night and it includes the famous “Dill Pickles” recipe from alumnus Mitch Burnie (Class of 2011) who was Manager of Adamama Farm, the first Urban Jewish Educational Farm in Australia, from its inception in 2008 until April this year.

This cookbook is more than just a collection of recipes; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of togetherness and the rich tapestry of flavours that define our community. Over the years, Shalom, supported by the JCA, has been a source of connection, unity, and innovation. This cookbook serves as a tribute to all those who made Shalom what it is today. Shalom has been at the forefront of Jewish life and learning over the past 50 years, and this cookbook celebrates a half-century of impact. Shalom College, founded in 1973, has been a home for thousands of students, and Shalom programs (under many different auspices) have been central to creating a strong and vibrant community. These recipes are from a collection of people, current and past staff, partners, board members, volunteers, presenters, and participants, who have, over the course of time, shaped the Jewish experience of an entire community. Some of the recipes are from festival meals, others family favourites. They are delicious, wholesome, and share a story. 

An important message from the Community Security Group NSW (CSG) 
Never Again Is Now

The Australian Jewish community has been a vital part of Australia’s diverse cultural landscape for over 200 years, making significant contributions across business, the arts, medicine, and public service. Their involvement over decades has played a crucial role in shaping the nation’s values of multiculturalism and inclusivity. Through active societal engagement and fostering intercultural dialogue, Jewish communities have been instrumental in defining Australia’s identity as a tolerant and dynamic democracy. However, since Saturday 7 October 2023, there has been a concerning rise in antisemitic incidents throughout Australia. Across the country, there have been a staggering number of reports which detail offensive language, harassment, threats and appalling vandalism at significant landmarks across Australia. The rise of antisemitism in Australia has been described by the Sydney Morning Herald as “off the charts”, while The Australian has reported a 482% rise in antisemitic incidents.

In response to these developments, there has been a call to action from leaders across various sectors in Australia, re-affirming their commitment to fighting racism in all its forms and supporting the Jewish community. This collective stance underscores the importance of standing together and upholding the principles of respect and dignity for all, which are central to the Australian way of life.

Can you help with getting more black beanies to our IDF soldiers in Israel?

An update from Emanuel grandparent Pam Wertheim who is co-ordinating the mammoth “Black Beanie Project for the IDF” – some of the 5000 beanies already knitted are now keeping the heads of our soldiers warm and more beanies are on the way. Pam says: “the next shipment will be leaving Sydney end of December/early January, so please keep those needles clicking and for those of you who wish to buy beanies they are available at $2.50 from Federal Workwear, 69 Ebley St, Bondi Junction (next to Spotlight). We are also seeking donations towards the freight cost of getting the beanies to Israel, so please call me on 0401519156 or email blackbeanieproject746@gmail.com for more details.”

Black Beanies on heads of IDF soldiers Medium

Peace, prayer and ‘the star’ run 
Sunday 3 December 2023, 9.30 am – 10.30 am

This event is a collaboration, supported by JCA and Maccabi Life. Please join Maccabi Walkie Talkies and register now!

• Moment of prayer for Israel with IDF soldiers
• Walk/run along a 2km route shaped Magen David
• Download Strava or running app to record your route and speed powerful message of support on social media
• Dress code: wear BLUE
• The aim of this event is to uplift ourselves and benefit our mental health during these challenging times by being outdoors, together, and sharing our support with Israel the Jewish people worldwide.

We continue to support our brothers and sisters in Israel as best as we can, as well as our families in Sydney. We are heartened as we see some of the hostages returned to their loving families over this past week, but we will not stop our prayers and support until all hostages are released.

Hostages Medium

Last week you read about the collaboration of singers from around the world which culminated in a moving video clip, a cover version of Madonna’s song Like a prayer.  Watch the Sydney singers in this video clip – if you look closely you will see a number of members of our School community including parent Eileen Goldberg and grandparent Rony Bognar OAM, Volunteer Co-ordinator at the Sydney Jewish Museum.

Head On photo festival

Parents Moshe Rosenzveig OAM and Anita Schwartz thank our School community for your support of this amazing photographic festival and wanted to let our readers know they have just a couple more days to get down to Bondi Beach to check out some of the photographic installations on display along the promenade.

Practical Strategies to Help Us Cope
Monday 4 December 2023, webinar, 7.30 pm – 9.00 pm

Wolper Jewish Hospital and the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies (NSWJBD) invite our community to this special wellbeing webinar.       

This free session is for parents, grandparents and carers and will focus on our children and adolescents as we all learn how to protect their mental health during this time of trauma, grief and anxiety. For more information contact Wolper Hospital on 9328 6077.

Chanukah 2023/5784

The Festival of Miracles, Chanukah, starts next Thursday night when we light the first candle on our Chanukiot. It is said that when Jews come together, miracles can happen, and we are all hoping for the ultimate miracle very soon, where all hostages are released, and peace returns to Israel. Here in Sydney, most synagogues have their own Chanukah celebrations planned as do many Jewish organisations, including a family event planned at Taronga Zoo on Sunday 10 December 2023.    

Chanukah at Taronga Zoo Medium

Here is a message from one of our parents Ilana Maisel: “Please join Dover Heights Shule on Sunday, 10 December 2023 from 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm for the annual city wide Chanukah celebration – an evening of unity, resilience, and joy. In these challenging times, it’s more crucial than ever for the Jewish community to stand together in solidarity with our people and Israel, and the DHS Chanukah In The Park event is the perfect opportunity to do just that. The event promises entertainment for all ages, including live music, dancing, shows, rides for kids and teens, great food and more. At 6.30 pm, witness the grand menorah lighting, symbolising the ultimate triumph of light over darkness. It’s a powerful moment of shared strength and hope for a better tomorrow. Entrance is $10.00 per person with kids under 5 free and includes the musical concert, shows and some activities, as well as doughnuts, water, chocolate gelt and dreidels for the kids. Additional rides and food are available for purchase. Please book here – the venue will be confirmed via email several days prior to the event due to extra precautionary safety measures.”

Chanukah A5 2023 print – 1

Songs for Israel
Monday 11 December 2023

On the 5th night of Chanukah at 7.00 pm, you are invited to attend “Songs for Israel” – a Community United in Solidarity. A spectacular concert with renowned performers. Feel uplifted, sing along as you support and be at one with Israel. Tickets are $72.00, and all proceeds go to Chanukah Respite Camp Children Victims of Terror. Register online.    

Friendship Circle (FC) Camp
January 2024

School holidays are just around the corner, and this means it won’t be long until the next FC Day Camp! Registrations are now open for current and new volunteers aged 12-18 and in Years 7-12. 

It will be a week filled with laughter, friendships, and fun incursions and excursions, with amazing opportunities for High School students to volunteer and share these experiences while assisting children with disabilities, aged between 5 and 18. Find out more and register here.       

Friendship Circle Day Camp Jan 2024 Medium

We look forward to sharing our news and yours, so if you have photos and/or news you would like to share with us, please send to Sonia Newell.  

Shabbat shalom, stay safe and have a relaxing summer break. We are all hoping for a wonderful start to 2024.

Music Matters

Diana Springford – Director of Music P-12

Welcome to our Music Matters page! 🎶

Thanks so much for your support of music at Emanuel this year. Here is some important information for Term 1 2024.  

• IP classes and Extra-curricular Music Ensemble Rehearsals resume in Week 3 in 2024.
• Year 3 and Year 5: The first day of IP in 2024 is Tuesday 13 February 2024.
• Year 4 and Year 6: The first day of IP in 2024 is Wednesday 14 February 2024.
• K-2 Infant Strings Program classes will resume from Week 2 in 2024.

Updated Ensembles and Choirs Rehearsal Schedule 2024 

Here is our weekly ensemble rehearsal schedule for 2024. We will continue to update this as necessary.

Auditions

Auditions for all relevant ensembles and choirs will be held in Week 3, Term 1 2024 and advertised in Ma Nishma as appropriate. Auditions always involve a student playing or singing a piece of their choice, and usually involve some sight reading and/or vocal exercises, and sometimes a couple of scales for instrumentalists but the details of requirements for auditions are announced when the auditions are first advertised.

End of Year Music Performances

Please look out for these ensembles and choirs who will be beautifully presented in next week’s end-of-year presentation ceremonies: 

Years K – 2 Presentation Day

• Infants Choir
• Perlman Strings

Years 3 – 6 Presentation Night

•   Junior Choir
•   Junior Chamber Choir
•   Year 6 Rock Band
•   Gershwin + Bernstein combined Concert Bands (PS members only)

High School Speech Night
(rehearsals in the afternoon, at Emanuel Synagogue)

•   Senior Choir
•   Jazz Combo
•   Mendelssohn String Ensemble
•   Klezmer Ensemble
•   Mariah Lewy, Caitlin Ben Mayor, Ariel Solomon, Alice Milner

Instruments checked and ready for collection 

Thank you to students for bringing in any school instruments this week for our annual stocktake and maintenance check. They have been serviced and are ready for collection from the cabinets in the Music Department. A few will need to go offsite for repairs and Joanne De Araujo will have emailed you about those. If you haven’t already collected your instrument (or replacement instrument, if yours has gone for repair and you are keen to practise over term break – which we hope you will), please do so before the end of the term.  No students should leave their instruments here over term break.

Private Music Tuition and Infant Strings Program

Thank you to those who have already advised us of changes to private tuition and Infant Strings Program (ISP) enrolments for next year. The deadline for new enrolments, notification of changes or intention to discontinue for Term 1 2024 was Friday 24 November 2023.

All students currently receiving private music tuition and students in Years K-1 who are currently participating in the ISP will be automatically re-enrolled into tutor schedules along with students commencing for the first time. Formal notification of intention to discontinue must be received now to avoid being committed to the full term of lessons and liable for fees. 

The schedules for Term 1 2024 will be created during term break and emailed in late January.

Please contact music@emanuelschool.nsw.edu.au if you have any questions.  

Please visit our Music Portal Page for information about:

• Private Music Tuition (beginning and discontinuing)
• Ensemble and Choir membership for K-12 students
• Infant Strings Program (ISP) for K-2
• Performance opportunities
• Borrowing an orchestral instrument.

Ivriton – our second edition! 

Natali Tchelet- Head of Hebrew 7-12

Ivriton – second edition! 

Savour the essence of our school community’s culinary delights with the newest edition of Ivriton, our Hebrew magazine.

This time, we’re bringing you a down-to-earth celebration of food. Discover the warmth of favourite recipes shared by students, along with cozy cafe and restaurant recommendations. Dive into casual chats with our food-loving teachers and faculty, gaining insights into their culinary experiences. Ivriton is your invitation to a relaxed gathering around the table, where we share stories and flavours that make our community unique. Pick up your copy and join us in this simple, flavorful exploration of our shared love for food.

Mazal Tov to Noah Dusheiko (Year 7) for winning the jokes competition.

Click here for our online edition.

Cookbook by Year 8 Hebrew students

Shalom to our school community! This year, our Year 8 Hebrew class embarked on a unique and delicious adventure as they delved into the vibrant world of Israeli cuisine. The journey began with the students immersing themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Israel, understanding the significance of food in the country’s history and daily life. Through interactive lessons, they learned not only the Hebrew names of various ingredients but also the stories behind each dish. This interdisciplinary approach expanded their language proficiency and provided a deeper appreciation for the cultural context of the language they were studying.

As a culminating project, students were given the opportunity to choose their favourite recipe, which they then translated into Hebrew. The classroom buzzed with excitement as they shared family stories and anecdotes related to their chosen dishes, connecting personal experiences with their newfound language skills.

What truly set this project apart was the students’ innovative decision to capture their cooking adventures on film. Each student transformed their kitchen into a mini film studio. From the bustling sounds of chopping vegetables to the sizzling melodies of frying pancakes, these videos are a testament to the students’ dedication and enthusiasm.

To showcase their hard work, the students compiled their recipes and videos into a unique digital recipe book including a QR code for each recipe, allowing anyone to scan and instantly watch the corresponding cooking video. 

As we celebrate the successful completion of this project, we extend our appreciation to the Year 8 Hebrew class for their creativity, passion, and the delightful taste they’ve brought into our lives. May this culinary adventure inspire more interdisciplinary projects in the future, weaving together language, culture, and the joy of shared meals.

תיהנו! (Enjoy!)

Click here to see our digital cookbook

Gifted & Talented

Craig Moss – HSIE Teacher, Coordinator of Gifted & Talented 7-12

Well done to all the students that have participated in the wide range of extracurricular opportunities provided by the Gifted and Talented Department this year.

Here are some of the highlights of the year:

Australian National Virtual Debating Competition Champions

Congratulations to the Year 10 Debating team who won the Australian National Virtual Debating Competition. They progressed significantly throughout the year, entering a number of competitions and attending a debating day at the University of New South Wales. The team has developed into a group of accomplished and skillful debaters. Well done to Jaime Keyser, Jayden Segal, Elias Davis, Ariel Bloom, Liberty Waldner, Jordan Pal and Sarah Manoy. Thanks also to Lara Fosbery and Julia Tritsch who coached and co-ordinated the team respectively. 

Year 9 Chess Team Division Winners and Grand Finalists

The Year 9 Chess Team A became the Division winners and qualified for the Secondary Schools Chess Competition finals for the 5 years in a row. They progressed one step further than last year, beating the previous winners and archrivals Sydney Boys in the Semi-Final. Although they fell short in the Grand Final it is still an amazing achievement. Well done to Josh Barnett, Daniel Zipser, Oscar Salek, Max Tsipris and Dylan Vitek.

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More success in the Future Problem Solving Competitions

Emanuel School continues to excel in competitions provided in the Future Problem Solving Program. This year Leah Joshua qualified for the National Final and came 4th out of 70 students nationwide. This is an excellent achievement. One of the evaluators commented, ‘congratulations on creating an engaging character and futuristic story. Well done Leah!

Qualification for the Quest National Final

Congratulations to Tennyson Wheeler, Hannah Fekete and Max Elias for qualifying for the Quest National Final. The Quest is one of the most anticipated academic competitions and provides opportunities for creativity, problem solving and teamwork, offering the level of challenge that fosters outstanding achievement. With this year’s overarching theme ‘a never ending tale’, the Quest incorporates the main disciplines of Mathematics, Sciences and Humanities in a journey of discovery. 

Mock Mediation Team progressed to Quarter Final

Congratulations to the Mock Mediation Team for reaching the Quarter Final this year. Mock Mediation is an initiative of The Law Society of New South Wales. Students identify the issue in dispute, consider options and work towards an agreement that will meet the needs of all parties. Well done to Joshua Barnett, Dylan Vitek, Akeisha Kantor, Jessica Hart, Ezra Glover-Sanders, Daniel Zipser, Max Tsipris and Oscar Salek. They have developed their active listening, self awareness, questioning, analysing, empathising, speaking clearly and logically and creative thinking.

Success in the NSW da Vinci Decathlon 2023

As every year, five teams from Year 7 to 11 were sent to compete in the da Vinci Decathlon at Knox Grammar. This academic competition is designed to challenge and stimulate the minds of school students and celebrate the academic gifts of Australian Youth.  Again, all the teams performed extremely well, placing in the Top 3 in a number of disciplines.  This is very impressive since each team in each year group was competing against over 70 of the best schools in NSW. 

On the day, they receive a challenge in each of 10 disciplines engineering, mathematics, code breaking, art and poetry, science, English, ideation, creative producers, cartography and legacy. Students have to work as a team to complete each one the best they can. They are up against the clock so there is always a lot of energy and excitement in the Grand Hall at Knox Grammar. 

Well done in particular to the Year 7 Team: Reuben Durbach, Tamar Granot, Ethan Ickowicz, Theodore Salek, Zachary Salamon, Jake Vitek, Alexander Yu, Leah Zipser, who came 1^st in Art & Poetry, 2^nd in Creative Producers, 8^th in Code Breaking, 14^th in Engineering and 10th overall, out of 72 teams.

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Increased opportunities in the area of Philosophy

We expanded the academic extra-curricular opportunities even further this year, especially in the area of philosophy, such as the Ethics Exploration Day, Free Thinkers Forum, Meeting of minds, Philosophy Club and Stretch and Challenge Day.

Philosophical thinking is a great way for students to develop the skills to think deeply and formulate sound arguments. It also encourages an open-minded disposition, challenges assumptions and beliefs and builds their capacity for critical reasoning and ethical decision making. Philosophy as an elective subject will begin for Year 9 in 2024. 

Step out, Speak Out

The annual Step Out Speak Out walk was held on the 24 November 2023 to raise awareness about domestic violence, in the hopes of eradicating it from society.

Three Year 12 students from the Social Action Va’ad and Ms Lawrence attended this walk, which was organised by the NSW Police Department, the Randwick City Council and the supporting organisations of the SES and the Juniors.

Saturday 25 November 2023 marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, which is the beginning of the annual international campaign known as the 16 Days of Activism. During these 16 days, we are asked to Step Out, Speak Out and march against domestic violence as a community and in support of one another. The reason this walk is held before the 16 days of activism is because ‘Step Out Speak Out’ seeks to raise awareness of domestic violence, while the 16 days of activism target gender-based violence against women and girls. 

Our morning started in the cold and rainy High Cross Park in Randwick. At 7.30 am, we started the walk down to Coogee Beach via Coogee Bay Road and up to Grant Reserve, where the Police Band was playing, welcoming the public, and the many schools to this important event. We heard from a range of different speakers including Randwick Council Mayor Philipa Veitch, as well as the student leaders of local schools, including Randwick Girls High School, St Spyridon College and Waverley College. The student leaders spoke about a range of themes, including coercive control, being an upstander rather than a bystander, the importance of reporting domestic violence and how to provide help to victims of domestic violence. 

As for the concluding speech, the head student from Waverley College spoke about the role of young people in ending domestic violence as this is the world that will be ours to control. Everyone who was present at the event took a pledge of commitment to achieving this goal: “We will step out. We will speak out. We will end domestic violence”.

Overall, it was an insightful and meaningful morning.

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“Stand with courage, lead with conviction, and speak out to promote non-violence as the norm. Take action to end domestic violence and all forms of violence.”

P&F

Justine Hofman – Head of P&F

The end of the school year is upon us. The week has brought some hope with the return of the most vulnerable of hostages.

As we welcome in Chanukah next week, may more light continue to shine through. These times definitely shed light on what we are all grateful for and for me, one thing that I really appreciate being a part of our Emanuel community. Earlier this week, all the P&F Committee Heads met and shared a presentation highlighting our achievements this year. I so am proud of everyone who contributed and made these successes possible.

2023 Successes

• A new structure and new charter. We embarked on a significant project to determine the best new structure for the P&F moving forward. After much research and consultation we now are a committee under the school and with a new Charter to guide us.
• Raised over $25,000 with proceeds going to an array of projects including outdoor shade cover for new B’Yachad Building, a 40^th celebratory artwork created by students and a new commercial freezer to increase our capacity for Mitzvah Meals.
• Fully-fledged committees and 25% growth in participation in our initiatives and events. These initiatives are made possibly thanks to nine committees, 50 committee members, 250+ volunteers and 1400+ participants.
• A dedicated staff member supporting our efforts. Since mid-year Laura Hamilton has been working for the P&F as Administrator significantly lightening the load on committees and the P&F Executive. She is the parent of an Emanuel graduate, current administrative support to the SLC and has come from a career in event management.

As this is our last Ma Nishma update for the year, and the last for me as P&F President, I want to acknowledge some wonderful people.

Firstly, thank-you to every single person who works at Emanuel School. On behalf of all parents and friends, we know that this term has been full of strain and heightened emotion and we appreciate you for your teaching, supporting, administrating, managing, maintaining, securing, catering and everything else in between you’ve done to ensure our kids are happy and thriving in school.

I also want to acknowledge our School Board and Foundation Board, all of whom volunteer their expertise and time to build a bright future for our school and our community. In particular, thank you to outgoing Board President David New and Foundation Board President Marla Bozic.

For the P&F, there are a number of people who contributed significantly to make this year a success. I would like to express my biggest thank you to Lisa Strous who has done an incredible job this year as Treasurer but also being the driver of the P&F Structure project. You are a truly brilliant person to work alongside and such a giver to this school. Thank you also Lynn Ross who is our Secretary who has stepped up into this role with cool and a sense of humour.

Biggest thanks to our incredible team of class parents headed up by the wonderful Louise Romer and Amy Friedlander. You keep us all from forgetting mufti days, remembering when there’s a class excursion and everything else in between. Thanks to: Corinne Franks, Alisa Siale, Lisa Pillemer, Avital Melman, Fiona Aaron, Kirsty Greenfield, Anna-Lisa Palmer, Naomi Raiz, Jessie Kawolsky, Sally Greenberg, Alina Kirievsky and Ally Kuperman.

Thank you to our Committee Heads who have done an extraordinary job of creating initiatives with love and care: Ilan Bloom, Mary Glikin, David Eliovson, Lynn Ross, Carli Rothman Rebecca Pal, Elly Berger, Sharon Miller, Louise Romer, Melanie Shilbury and Sam Butt.

Thank you to Sam Butt, who is stepping down from her role as New Families liaison.Thank you for all your contributions over the years which helped to make our newest community members feel welcome.

On a personal level, I have gained so much in this role the past two years. I have loved seeing our community come together. The laughs, friendship and camaraderie on committees has been a highlight. I will continue to be involved and I am hoping to get some new projects for the P&F off the ground in 2024.

As a reminder, we are now calling on nominations for a new President or Co-Presidents (yes there can be two sharing this role) for the P&F in 2024.

You can nominate yourself or nominate someone else to our P&F Secretary, Lynn Ross by emailing pandfsecretary@emanuelschool.nsw.edu.au . If you would like more information on what the role entails, Lynn can share further details.

For the Diary

• Friday Chills: 3.15 pm – 4.00 pm, Fridays (lat one on today)
• Pre-loved Uniform Shuk Collection: 7.30 am – 8.30 am, 4 December  2023 – 7 December 2023
• Pre-loved Uniform Shuk Sale: 8.00 am – 12.00 pm, Monday 29 January 2024

Uniform Shop Holiday Trading Hours

Holiday Trading Hours

The Emanuel Uniform Store will close for the school holidays on Tuesday 12 December 2023 at 3.00 pm and will re-open for Term 1, 2024 on Monday 15 January 2024 at 9.00 am.

All families must make an appointment to visit the uniform shop. Please go to: https://Midford.as.me/EmanuelSchool

Extended Trading Hours are as follows:

• Term 4 2023
  Friday 8 December 2023, Monday 11 December 2023, Tuesday 12 December 2023
  9.00 am – 3.00 pm

• Term 1 2024
  Monday 15 January 2024 – Friday 19 January 2024
  9.00 am – 3.00 pm
  Monday 22 January 2024 – Thursday 25 January 2024
  9.00 am – 3.00 pm
• Closed Friday 26 January 2024 – Australia Day
• Monday 29 January 2024
  9.00 am – 3.00 pm
• Tuesday 30 January 2024  – Thursday 1 February 2024
  8.00 am – 5.00 pm

Normal trading hours resume on Monday 5 February 2024.
You are welcome to purchase from the online uniform shop, passphrase ES1983. All orders will be completed when the store reopens.

Contact details:

Phone: 9326 5445
Email: emanuel@midford.com.au

Uniform Sale!

PSG

Thank you to our volunteers for last week
(Monday 20 November 2023 – Friday 24 November 2023)

Daniel Stein, Elizabeth Ben Gida, Ben Sebel, Daniel Deutsch, Danny Berkovic, Rachel Cohen, David Vitek, Zoltan Waldner, Sarah Kummerfeld, Ranald Kogan, Gavin Brown, Leon Waxman, Danielle Soutar, Yaron Allul, Ana Zuccarino, Nurit Fulford, Richard Kery, Dorran Wajsman, Paul Hamor, Hila Haskelberg, Jethro Marks, Michael Springer, Antony Selby, Rami Weiss, Gavin Wertheim, Anatoly Kirievsky, Astrid Van Raamsdonk, Cara Adler and Lisa Sherman.

Help keep our kids and community safe: sign up to PSG here.

Important Dates

What’s Happening Next Week 

High School

Tuesday 5 December 2023

• Year 8 Jewish Studies Life Cycle Event

Thursday 7 December 2023

• High School Speech Night 
• Last Day of Term 4 

Primary School

Monday 4 December 2023

• P&F second hand uniform collection starts

Tuesday 5 December 2023

• Years K-2 Presentation Day 
• Years 3-6 Presentation Night

Wednesday 6 December 2023

• Year 6 Gratitude Day – Manly Water Works

Thursday 7 December 2023

• K-6 Picnic Day (on campus)
• Last Day of Term 4 

 Kornmehl

Monday 4 December 2023

• Kornmehl – Bush School Family Picnic 

Thursday 7 December 2023

• Last Day of Term 4

Community Notices