Volume 4 - Issue 5 Shvat 5773 - January 2013

Caplin Family Dedication Michael Caplin-Scholarship

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Dear ParentsOur recent Year 13 Graduation Ceremony, which saw the majority of our recent graduates returning to JFS for the evening, was an opportunity for me to reflect on the many successes that we as a school enjoy. We were honoured to welcome the Right Honourable John Bercow, MP, the Speaker of the House of Commons, and his words of praise for our school should give us all, staff, students and parents alike, a sense of great pride. He said “I am quite convinced that there cannot be a better fully non-selective state comprehensive school

anywhere in the United Kingdom and that is an achievement of which you can be inordinately proud”. As Headteacher I am proud of all our students, who achieve great things each year, and it was a pleasure to celebrate the successes of every one of our graduates last week.You may have noticed, following our return to School, that we have re-launched our website and we hope this will be much easier to navigate. At the same time, we found over recent months that there were so many varied activities taking place each month we were struggling to fit them all into a monthly Newsletter. To this end, this mid-January Newsletter marks the first of what will now be a twice-monthly publication. Furthermore, the Newsletter will now be

more interactive with the opportunity to view videos and photo galleries of events. At the moment, due to the nature of how we are publishing the Newsletter, it uses something called Flash which will not display on iPads and iPhones, so users of these will, for now, have to download the PDF, available to the right hand side of the Newsletter page. I hope these new innovations help you to stay in touch with the exciting and varied events that are taking place every day at JFS.

Yours sincerely

Jonathan MillerHeadteacher

Lavi Group 17 at the airport ready for their return to London

Parents off to PolandPreparations for the first JFS visitPage 8

Israel Society Israeli elections as viewed by our students Page 7

Message from theHeadteacher

Year 13 Graduation CeremonyMr Speaker, The Right Honourable John Bercow MP, was the Guest of Honour at the annual JFS Graduation Ceremony. 700 people attended and heard the address by the Guest Speaker who was introduced by JFS President Lord Levy.The evening was a celebration of the graduation of the 2012 cohort who continued JFS’ outstanding record for ‘A Level’ results. Almost 50% of all A2 entries secured an A* or A grade last August while 80% of results were at grades A*, A or B and students achieved an overall pass rate of 100%.Mr Bercow delighted the crowd with anecdotes from his childhood education and his tennis playing days as well as his musings about his height and being incorrectly described as the shortest Speaker in history.His overall message to the graduating students was that of perseverance to achieve in life and that success is not just gained through the luck of the genes we are born with, but through hard work, focus and determination. He went on to say “I am quite convinced that there cannot be a better fully non-selective state comprehensive school anywhere in the United Kingdom and that is an achievement of which you can be inordinately proud”Headteacher Jonathan Miller commented “We have a strong sense of family at JFS and it is always pleasing to see former students and their family members returning to the School. We are proud of the achievements of every one of our graduates and know that they will have taken inspiration from the words of John Bercow.

One of the highlights of our annual ceremony is the live link-up with graduates who are taking a gap-year in Israel. They were able to come together at the Hebrew University and graduate in real time alongside their peers in

London. The return of our graduates to JFS, together with their family members, is one of the highlights of the JFS calendar and this year was no exception. We wish the best of luck to everyone with their future endeavours.

Graduating students in London.

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(L)Cameron Berko, Mr Speaker, R.H. John Bercow MP, Aimee Belchak, JFS School President Lord Levy and Joely Axelrod

Our graduating students on gap year in Israel

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Lord Levy with

Caplin Family DedicationPrior to the commencement of our Graduation Ceremony this year, a plaque was unveiled in the Science Department in honour of Michael Caplin, whose family recently made a generous donation to JFS. Michael Caplin was an ambitious scholar and provided his ten children with a strong educational ethos. His family created the Michael Caplin Scholarship to support one JFS graduate studying Science at university with funding towards the university fees. An excerpt from a Biography by Mrs Evelyn Rose Glazer (née Caplin), daughter of Michael, reads:“Jane and Michael were determined to find a better future for their children and knew that this was achievable only by continued education, whatever the cost to their own health and well-being. Their children responded wholeheartedly to the selfless sacrifice of their parents, by gaining scholarships to higher education and thereafter to universities, leading to outstanding

careers in Architecture, Medicine, Commerce, Finance and the Law.What better way to repay these achievements than to assist boys and girls of JFS who have gained university entrance in the sciences and medicine by establishing an annual prize to be awarded to the student judged to be the prizewinner by the School’s Science Department. This student will be known as the Michael Caplin Scholar.

This award is made by the Jane Caplin Settlement, in loving memory of Michael Caplin, an unfulfilled would-be scholar himself. His funeral epitaph so rightly proclaimed him as a gentle man and a true gentleman.”The inaugural Michael Caplin Scholarship was awarded to Steven Gilbert who is studying Biomedical Sciences at St George’s College, University of London.

Some Highlights of JFS this month:1. Israel Society Debate2. Lavi 18 Departure3. GCSE Fair4. Duke of Edinburgh

Dr Joseph Glazer, Mrs Evelyn-Rose Glazer (nee Caplin), Lord Levy, Steven Gilbert, Mrs Judith Newton and Professor David Caplin.

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Club 12 Girls attending Club 12 designed their own ‘Al Netilat Yadaim’ (ritual washing of the hands) towels using fabric pens and stencils. They enjoyed the activity and especially viewing each others’ designs.

Jewish Way of Life ExhibitionAt JFS, everyone is taught to understand Judaism, at least on a basic level, and to appreciate their connection to the world’s oldest monotheistic religion. However, we habitually overlook the fact that many people possess little or no knowledge of Judaism. In fact, many people in the UK have never really met a Jew before. At JFS we host several sessions of the “Jewish Way Of Life Exhibition” (JWOLE) whereby students from non-Jewish primary schools are welcomed to experience a taste of Jewish life. Recently, students from Brooklands Junior School, Courtlands, Hartsbourne and Chalgrove spent a morning with us participating in JWOLE focusing on three core elements of Jewish life: Tzedakah, Keeping Kosher, and Shabbat.Miss Krieger opened the session with an introduction on what it means to be Jewish and the laws that bind the religion together. Then the visitors split up into three groups.The first concerned keeping Kosher and the laws of Kashrut. This was greeted with mixed reactions, ranging from “I never liked bacon anyway” to “No cheeseburgers, seriously?” Nevertheless, their reaction was unmistakably positive. Many came from Muslim families and appreciated the parallels with Halal food, while others understood the need for humane and compassionate treatment of animals.The next exhibit was based on Tzedakah, Charity. Year 9 Volunteers explained the importance of Tzedakah and how it is a central part of not just Judaism, but many other religions too. This was something almost every child could empathize with, and was particularly effective as it made them think about the similarities, and not

the differences, between us. As the saying goes “Virtues unite men where racism divides them”From then on, they were all the more receptive and enthusiastic, participating in an activity where they divided up a fictional sum of money between different types of charities. Again, this struck a chord within the children, who by the end, were positively inspired to change something for the better. As they were escorted to the final part of the exhibition, I heard talk of everything from donating pocket money to the NSPCC to helping out at an RSPCA shelter. Finally, the last part of the exhibition focused on Shabbat and its significance in Jewish life.Some of the pupils came from Jewish backgrounds and could relate to the routine of Shabbat. Even so, the majority did not. Luckily, they were not at a loss for an explanation as the exhibitors made clear the blessings, rituals and, most importantly some would say, the food. The children all responded energetically, asking questions about every little detail, but were most eager when they were given challah and grape juice. One boy, stuffing a whole challah role in his mouth, proclaimed excitedly “I love Challah!”In my opinion, the Exhibition was a resounding success. Not only did it provide the visitors with a rare insight into Jewish practices and culture, but in doing so, it encouraged them to contemplate the similarities between their values and our Jewish ones. In the end, hopefully everyone will come to the realisation that, our differences are truly minor, not worth abusing people over, and definitely not worth fighting wars over. .

Jacob Arbeid 9A1 Student Journalist

Miss Krieger instructing a visiting student how to blow a Shofar.

Why DofE?‘Leading youth charity the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) gives all young people the chance to develop skills for work and life, fulfil their potential and have a brighter future.’

In 1956, the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Phillip, established the DofE award, a scheme for Year 9 students and upwards to take part in a physical challenge whilst simultaneously giving back to their community. Initially the award consisted of four sections: rescue and public service; expeditions; pursuit and projects; and fitness. However the course has evolved, fitting the needs of the young children of today’s society.

The four parts of the course are now: Physical – doing something active that you enjoy, “something that makes you hot and sweaty”Volunteering – helping out at a charity shop, sports facility, school etc.Skill – doing something non-active that you enjoy, “something that tests your brain and does not make you hot and sweaty”Expedition – depending on the award that one is currently completing, the length of the expedition will change

The project is split into three main sections; Bronze, Silver and Gold.

To complete the Bronze Award, a student must do three months of two

of the sections, six months of the other and successfully complete their hike (expedition). Silver requires six months for all and a two night, three day hike and Gold requires 12 months for all with a four night, five day hike.

Participants undergo a strict training course prior to the expedition. Roughly nine courses of two hours length are arranged, teaching students vital skills to survive in the wilderness. This ranges from orienteering to cooking to first aid. Students learn a wealth of new skills including co-operation and communication skills, attributes that are carried into daily life.

The Duke of Edinburgh website is clearly set out and easily accessible if you want to get involved. The staff are also very friendly and quick to respond to emails/phone calls. There are also many ways to find out more at JFS and JLGB members (the people who run the DofE campaign in Jewish schools) are often in school.

Being a student who has participated in DofE myself, I believe it is not only a great thing to have for the future but loads of fun too. You make many new friends, learn vital skills and enjoy the views and clean air that the UK’s countryside has to offer.

And there you go, DofE in a nutshell. Or should I say sleeping bag?

Kalvin Ovsiowitz 10Z1 Student Journalist

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Leading SportsA group of JFS Sports Leaders from Year 10 were well rewarded for their commitment to sports leadership with the privilege of teaching the ‘Young Leaders’ course to a group of Sinai pupils who came to JFS. The event came after the students involved completed their Sports Leadership course, directed by Miss Quarrell of the School’s P.E Department, in which students stayed after school every Wednesday for a term to discuss and practically develop leadership skills, as well as completing their National Governing Body (NGB) course.In return for their hard work, students enjoyed a well-led discussion in the Conference Centre by an Extended Learning Coordinator, who came in from neighbouring school Kingsbury High School to teach the Sports Leaders the young leaders’ course.

The Sports Leaders then went off into groups to plan how they would deliver the course to Sinai pupilsBoth Sports Leaders and Sinai students conducted themselves with thorough enthusiasm, ‘a very fun and educational day,’ as one

boy claimed. In conjunction with all the Sports Leaders participants, Miss Quarrell said that she was ‘immensely proud of all Sports Leaders.’ Jordan Freud 10A3 Student Journalist

JFS Year 10 Sports Leaders with a visiting primary school

Hiking for DofE

Orienteering for DofE

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Yomei IyunJFS recently enjoyed two Yomei Iyun, mornings dedicated to intensive, source based, Jewish studies. Over 140 students from Year 7 and Year 8, currently on the School’s Text Programme, participated in the first morning’s activities. There was also a separate event for the Year 9 group.The theme of the first day was ‘Heroes from Tanach’. Students learnt in small groups deriving pure principles from the texts. The students clearly identified with the underlying message; everyone has the potential to be a hero and each person has their own individual talents to share with the world.

Illuminating JFSWe were delighted to welcome Mr Steve Holliday to JFS. Mr Holliday is the CEO of the National Grid and a Director of Marks and Spencer as well as being an active philanthropist with charities such as Crisis and being an advocate form STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) in education.Mr Holliday came to JFS via the ‘Speakers4Schools Programme’ set up by Robert Peston of the BBC. Mr Holliday spoke to the entire Year 13 cohort about the challenges that face the energy sector in the future and the impact that these challenges will have on each one of us. He spoke about where our energy will come from in the next 20 years, the pros and cons of nuclear and wind energy and the type of careers that exist in the energy sector. His talk was illuminating and enjoyed by all.

Participants in the Year 9 Yom Iyun

Winter ConcertOur popular annual Winter Concert took place recently and, as we have come to expect, was well attended. Over 80 students performed to a packed audience in the Theatre and were involved either as soloists or in various ensembles. A wide variety of musical styles were performed ranging from Latin to Soul and Beat-boxing.

The concert was opened by 7AB6 who won the Year 7 “Sing off”. Two first time soloists were Brandon Myers (Year 7) who sang “I won’t give up” by Jason Mraz and Emma Sherrard (Year 7) who sang “Don’t rain on my parade” by Merrill and Styne.All year groups were represented as well as this being a first JFS concert experience for many students.

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Israel Society Election DebateBoth the Lower School and Sixth Form Israel Societies joined together for a special joint session in order to watch and participate in a pre-election debate. Representatives from the six parties running in the upcoming Mock Israeli Election at school spoke for 60 seconds about what they felt to be the greatest challenge facing Israel at the moment and what their party proposes to do in order to face this challenge. The discussion was then opened to questions from the floor. Jonas Dein, who is representing the Yisrael Beitenu (Israel is Our Home) Party, identified the growing tension from the International community and amongst Israeli Arabs for a peaceful solution to the Israeli Palestinian. Conflict risked coming to a rushed and therefore ineffective resolution. Kobi Weiner representing the Shas Party saw the greatest challenge facing Israel as the inequality between Sefardi and Ashkenazi Jews, whereas Sam Morris of Labour identified it as the on-going Israeli Palestinian conflict. When asked whether Hamas are a viable negotiating partner, Joel Collick of Likud said that they could not be a reasonable partner until Hamas renounced all claims for the destruction of Israel whereas Eli Shafritz of Meretz said that, as Hamas represent a large proportion of Palestinians, they must be recognised as potential negotiating partners especially if there is even a small chance that it could lead to peace.

The 50 students present were shown the promotional video for the election which is also being screened around the school. Students were invited to get involved in any of the parties

running in the election especially ahead of the Election Fair being held on Wednesday 16 January and are encouraged to vote on Tuesday 22 January, when polling also opens in Israel.

Artistic Barmitzvah BoyEthan Djanogly , a student in Year 8, is celebrating his Barmitzvah with an Art show at the Royal Institute of British Architects. Being a passionate photographer from a very young age, Ethan’s parents have encouraged him to expand his talents and, as a result, he has secured this magnificent opportunity to display his work publicly. ‘My 13th Perspective’ shows pictures from Israel, America, France and the UK.

Ethan and a sample of one of his photographs (R)

a time for celebrationJFS School The Mall Kenton Harrow HA3 9TE

Telephone: 020 8206 3100Fax: 020 8206 3101

For the latest news and up to date information, visit our School website (www.jfs.brent.sch uk) www.facebook.com/JFSSchool @JFSSchool

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Poland - A Parent’s PerspectiveIn a few short weeks, the first JFS Parents’ Visit to Poland will depart. In advance of the visit, the group came into JFS for a briefing meeting and to meet with the other members of the group. The evening was also a chance to meet with Rabbi Adam Edwards, the JFS Family Educator, who will lead the trip and oversee the follow up programme upon their return.The parent’s perspective of this trip will serve to enhance the student

experience and that of the wider JFS family.We are very pleased with the interest this trip has engendered in our parent body and we are already making plans for next year’s trip, as requested by many parents who could not make it this year.If you still wish to join the visit that departs on 3 February, there may be room for a couple more people. Please contact Rabbi Edwards ASAP to find out more. He can be contacted via email Seed@jfs.brent.sch.uk .

FiIna First group of JFS parents preparing for their trip to Poland

Hebrew ReadingAs announced in the final Newsletter of last term, we will shortly be running a Hebrew Reading course for parents.

This crash course will offer you the opportunity to learn (or re-learn) to read Hebrew and enable you to help guide your children in their studies of Hebrew at JFS. This may be particularly useful for those with children who are heading towards their Bar or Bat Mitzvah but is open to all.

For further details please contact Rabbi Edwards, our Family Educator, via email Seed@jfs.brent.sch.uk