Phenomenal Cheder Growth at RBRS
Thursday, 06 October 2011
Progressive Jewish life in South Hertfordshire is experiencing a real upsurge. Radlett & Bushey Reform Synagogue, the fastest growing community in our Movement, has just seen a flurry of new members rushing to enrol their children in time for the start of the religion school academic year. Five years ago the RBRS religion school had a decreasing attendance roll and there were even discussions about winding it up. Yet just this month they have launched two form entry across their infants' years in order to cater for the swelling numbers of children in years one and two.New parents have explained that their choices to join RBRS are based on the outstanding local reputation of the cheder, especially the fun, informal approach of a very lively interactive curriculum.
Rabbi David Mitchell, the outgoing headteacher explains that: "we have seen steady growth, year on year, but nothing like this. It is a real testimony to the commitment of our teachers and the pioneering spirit that still prevails throughout our 40 year young community".
Developing youth provision at RBRS is one their key strategic priorities and in recent months they have launched a series of well-attended programmes; everything from a two week 'GLEE' summer play-scheme to family friendly 'Fret' guitar-led services.
As the number of B'nei and B'not Mitzvah exceed 30, the community has also revamped its two year Bar/Bat Mitzvah programme and ensured that their rabbis and youth worker are directly involved across all the age groups. As one new member put it "I know of no other local synagogue where my children are so well catered for".
Rabbi Paul Freedman, Principal Rabbi, sums it up well by explaining that RBRS is growing steadily both in numbers as well as in vibrancy and the range and quality of our youth provision.
Find out more about Radlett & Bushey Reform Synagogue
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