Jews see education as a life-long endeavour, and we aim to provide educational activities for all our members and those who would like to join us.
We currently have a Tuesday evening group for adults. See below for activities for younger members and for those wishing to convert.
Our Cheder
has different groups by age, and a monthly Cheder Yachad for all children, aged from one to 10. This usually focusses on a topic-based creative activity, and runs from 11.30-12.30 on Sundays.
Kita Aleph, for children of the age for reception & Year 1, involves letter recognition, Hebrew words, songs and games (10.30-11.30).
Kita Bet, for 6-10 year olds, focuses on Hebrew reading and writing plus topic work (10.30-12.30, except when Cheder Yachad takes over the final hour).
Kita Gimmel, for 10+, is a pre bat/bar mitzvah group. There are weekly classes in reading and writing Hebrew, following and understanding the services, Tanach (the five books of Moses and later writings), Jewish festivals, customs, rituals, tradition, songs and games.
Adult
Various formal and informal sessions are held for Members and 'Friends of NRS'on Tuesday evenings at 7.30pm.
Conversion Classes
Through the auspices of our Rabbi, the Synagogue can provide tuition for men or women wishing to convert to Judaism. Such candidates are usually invited to attend regularly and without obligation for a period of around one year in order to familiarise themselves with the services, understand the Jewish calendar and satisfy themselves and the Rabbi of their commitment before being enrolled.
Following this, the course lasts for a minimum of one year and candidates are expected to attend services and classes regularly.
Tuition includes learning to read and write Hebrew, familiarity with Jewish history and liturgy, learning Jewish ritual and tradition. Candidates are encouraged to become involved in all activities but may not participate in services or wear a Tallit until they are formally accepted by the Beth Din.
A fee is charged for the tuition provided (usually roughly equivalent to one year's adult membership). Where appropriate, the Jewish partner and their family are encouraged to take up membership of the Synagogue. Prior to acceptance by the Beth Din, male candidates must be circumcised (brit milah) and both male and female candidates must visit a mikvah (bath for ritual immersion).
At the end of the course and providing that the candidate is put forward by the Rabbi, the applicant is interviewed by the Beth Din, usually in London, who make the final decision and award a Certificate of Conversion. The Beth Din will also require a registration and conversion fee to cover their own costs.